We are a leader in industrial vacuums. Our broad range of HEPA industrial vacuums is specially designed to pick up and filter small particles, including dust from lead and silica. With OSHA’s newest guidelines mandating proper pickup of silica dust, now is the time to upgrade your equipment.

OSHA has recently issued new rules and regulations regarding the management and pickup of dangerous silica dust. Choosing the right industrial vacuum is important for maintaining your health and the health of your co-workers.

What is Silica Dust?

Silica, often referred to as quartz, is a very common mineral.  It is found in many materials common on construction and oil & gas sites, including soil, sand, concrete, masonry, rock, granite, and landscaping materials.

The dust created by cutting, grinding, drilling, or otherwise disturbing these materials can contain crystalline silica particles. These dust particles are very small. You cannot see them. This respirable silica dust causes lung disease and lung cancer. It only takes a very small amount of airborne silica dust to create a health hazard.

Health Risks

Silica dust can be harmful when it’s inhaled into your lungs over a long period at low to moderate levels, or short periods at high levels. Exposure can lead to serious diseases, including:

  • silicosis – irreversible stiffening of the lungs
  • lung cancer
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • kidney disease

Construction workers can be at risk of developing these diseases.

What can I do to prepare?

firstly, familiarize yourself with the new OSHA ruling regarding your industry. New rules and regulations become effective at different times. More information can be found on the OSHA website. Other quick tips include:

  • Develop a written plan for managing silica dust
  • Provide comprehensive training and support for your team about the dangers of silica dust and proper containment and cleaning procedures
  • Identify and provide the right tools for silica dust pickup. This should include HEPA vacuums, wet cutting saws, and proper respiratory protection.
What can I use to pick up silica dust?

Silica dust can be created whenever materials that include silica are disturbed. The best way to manage the pickup of silica dust is to capture at the moment in which it is disturbed. For example, when cutting granite or concrete containing silica, using a HEPA industrial vacuum as the material is cut is best. Make sure that the vacuum is rated HEPA to 99.97% filtration to 0.3 microns.

Additionally keeping all surfaces free and clear of silica dust helps prevent the spread of it. Consider using an industrial vacuum with a floor pickup tool to keep floors clear of silica dust.