Housekeeping
The employer should not allow dry sweeping or dry brushing when it could contribute to employee exposure to silica dust unless wet sweeping, HEPA-filtered vacuuming or other methods that minimize the likelihood of exposure are not feasible.
- The employer should not allow compressed air to be used to clean clothing or surfaces where such activity could contribute to employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica unless:
- the compressed air is used in conjunction with a ventilation system that effectively captures the dust cloud, or
- no alternative method is feasible.
- Exposed surfaces should be as free as practicable of silica- containing dust (bulk samples of the dust may need to be collected).
- Wet sweeping should be used to clean areas if possible.
- If vacuuming is used for cleaning, the exhaust air should be properly filtered to prevent the release of airborne silica back into the workroom.
- There should be separate break areas for consuming food, beverages, etc. that are kept free of silica.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
6-3. Which of the following is a safe housekeeping work practice when exposure to silica is possible?
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