OSHA-Compliant Concrete Grinding

Concrete Grinding: OSHA-Compliant Dust Control Methods

Concrete Floor Grinding is covered in Table 1 of the regulation. According to the standard, you do not need to measure workers’ exposure to silica or provide respiratory control if any of following criteria is met:

1) Use a machine equipped with an integrated water delivery system that continuously feeds water to the cutting surface. Table 1 does not specify a minimum flow rate; however, water must be applied at flow rates specified by the manufacturer.

Operate and maintain the tool in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.

OR

2) Use a machine equipped with a dust collection system recommended by the manufacturer.

Operate and maintain the tool in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.

The dust collector must provide the airflow recommended by the manufacturer, or greater, and have a filter with 99% or greater efficiency and a filter-cleaning mechanism.

When used indoors or in an enclosed area, use a HEPA-filtered vacuum to remove loose dust in between passes.

Let’s Talk About Your Dust Collector...

How big does it need to be?

For floor grinders, OSHA does not specify how big your dust collector needs to be. You must refer to the manufacturers recommendation to ensure you use a dust collector that is appropriate for your grinder.

What about the filter?

OSHA’s new rule requires that your dust collector have a built-in filter-cleaning mechanism. That means that you can-not take out the filter and bang it against a trashcan to get rid of a clog. Your dust collector must have an internal mechanism that does that without exposing you or your team to dust.

What else do I need to know?

Full and proper implementation of dust collection systems on walk-behind floor grinders also requires the employer to ensure that:

• The hose connecting the tool to the vacuum is intact and without kinks or tight bends
• The filter(s) on the vacuum are cleaned or changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent clogging
• The dust collection bags are emptied to avoid overfilling
  
  

We carry a full line of Certified and Tested HEPA Dust Extractors, as well as hoses, wands and all accessories needed to comply with Table 1 of the OSHA regulation.