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851 Silica Dust Safety in Construction
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Electrical Safety

When using wet methods with electrical equipment of any kind, be sure to use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) and watertight, sealable electrical connectors. These features are particularly important to employee safety in wet or damp areas, such as where water is used to control dust.

GFCI outlet
When using wet methods with electrical equipment, use GFCIs.

Although an assured equipment grounding conductor program is an acceptable alternative to GFCIs, OSHA recommends employers use GFCIs where possible because they afford better protection for employees.

Freezing Temperatures

Freezing temperatures complicate the use of water. Consider heating the local work area, if practical, to prevent ice from forming in the water-feed system.

Drain the system when not in use. Large portable heating units are commonly used to heat commercial and sometimes road and highway projects.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-4. What should the employer do when using wet methods with electrical equipment of any kind to limit exposure to silica dust?