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851 Silica Dust Safety in Construction
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The Basics

In order to discuss the various aspects of welding, cutting and brazing safety, first we need to cover the basics. So let's get started.

Protecting Workers from Silica Hazards - OSHA

Silica Is More Than Just Dust

Silica dust can be generated at dangerous levels anytime materials such as ceramics, concrete, masonry, rock and sand are mixed, blasted, chipped, cut, crushed, drilled, dumped, ground, mixed or driven upon.

Employees at construction sites may be exposed to silica dust during general housekeeping activities such as sweeping, emptying vacuum cleaners, and using compressed air for cleaning.

Silica exposures may also occur whenever silica-containing dust is disturbed, such as during material handling. The small particles generated during these activities easily become suspended in the air and, when inhaled, penetrate deep into employees' lungs.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-1. Silica dust may be generated anytime masonry or rock are _____.