Working with Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS)
| Purpose |
Protecting Workers from injuries and diseases associated with the exposure to crystalline silica dust. |
| Definition |
Silica itself is a composite of sand and rock. Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) is a by-product of processes such as sweeping, cutting, breaking, crushing, drilling, grinding, or abrasive blasting any sand, rock or concrete products. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Physical:
- Acute Silicosis
- Chronic Silicosis
- Lung cancer
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum
Administrative:
- Coordination of trade activities
- Exposure Control Plan (ECP)
- Fit Testing for Half Mask Respirator
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Basic PPE: Safety Footwear
- Task Specific PPE: Half Mask Respirator with P100 or N95 Mask, Gloves, Safety Glasses
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Ensure all Workers are trained in identifying RCS.
- Ensure that a qualified person has developed an ECP that meets regulatory requirements.
- Check the environment and ensure an ECP has been communicated.
- Ensure Workers assess work involving RCS and implement effective controls.
Do not
- Permit Workers to engage in work activities or silica process unless a risk assessment has been completed first by a qualified person.
- Disturb RCS dust or particles.
- Allow unauthorized Workers in a controlled work area.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Be trained in how to identify RCS and how to protect yourself from the associated hazards.
- Ensure you are familiar with all equipment and procedures from the ECP.
- Care for your PPE and clean equipment on a regular basis or before the start of your shift.
- Inspect all equipment that is used to control RCS exposure and remove damaged and defective equipment.
- Report to your Supervisor/Superintendent immediately and do not continue work until effective controls are put in place.
- Post signage to warn other about the work being done.
- Attempt to decontaminate yourself before entering clean areas of the worksite, to prevent the transfer of RCS particles
Do not
- Engage in work activities or silica processes before the ECP has been communicated and all proper controls are in place.
- Deviate from the procedures and controls set out in the ECP.
- Continue work activities or silica processes if you have identified a defective or deficient control measure.
- Shake out dusty clothing or PPE in the clean work area as this reintroduces RCS particles into the air.
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