As a Contractor, Worker, Handyman, or Homeowner, you should be aware of the dangers of Silica Dust and OSHA's new standard for Construction.
What is Cystalline Silica Dust?
Crystalline silica is a common mineral found in construction materials such as sand, stone, concrete, brick, and mortar. When these materials are cut, ground, drilled, or crushed, very small dust particles (known as "respirable" particles) can travel deep into workers's lungs and cause silicosis, an incurable and sometimes deadly lung disease. Respirable crystalline silica also causes lung cancer and other chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. In most cases, these diseases occur after years of exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
According to OSHA, about 2 million construction workers are exposed to this dust in over 600,000 workplaces.
In addition, anyone using masonry saws, grinders, drills, jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools are also exposed.
What does OSHA's Standard Require?
The standard (29 CFR 1926.1153) requires employers to limit worker exposures to crystalline silica and to take other steps to protect workers.
You can download OSHA's fact sheet by clicking here.
At Shell Lumber & Hardware, we are well versed in all aspects of construction, remodeling, and home improvement. This is why we make available a complete range of products to not only help employers comply with the new OSHA standard, but to help protect the DIY homeowner as well.
We carry a range of universal dust extractors and attachments for all popular power tools. We also carry respirators that meet the most stringent of standards. In addition, our Special Orders Department, can help equip even the largest employers with the necessary equipment.
Please remember that Silicosis is 100% preventable. Let us all to our part to prevent it.
Stop by and browse through the many solutions and types of tools that we offer. We are located at 2733 S.W. 27th Avenue Miami, Florida 33133, visit us online www.shelllumber.com or give us a call locally at 305-856-6401 or Toll-Free 800-621-6391.