Silica Dust – The Home Improvement Intruder
By Makayla Long, EcoSafe Environmental Field Scientist
Home renovations are a gratifying and welcome upgrade but – Oh that dust! The satisfaction of a new countertop, kitchen backsplash or shower surround project can stir up an unfortunate secondary outcome – silica dust.
Undisturbed, those gorgeous building materials are benign, but once you or your contractor begin grinding, sawing, drilling, or using abrasive tools, silica dust is created and dispersed throughout the work area and your home. Silica dust exposure can pose a hazard to you and impact your indoor air quality.
What Materials Contain Silica?
Silica is not only used in marble countertops and tile, it is also found in many other materials used in the average household renovation: stone, rock, brick, concrete, and mortar.
How to Control and Minimize Silica Dust
Even experienced contractors can expose themselves to silica dust hazards they may not have considered, but dust containment methods are relatively simple.
OSHA recommends workers use wet methods such as spray tanks or a water hose to prevent silica dust from becoming airborne, while adding a dust collection system will minimize further silica dust dispersement. (OSHA)
Additional Worksite Precautions Include:
Containment barriers to isolate the work area from the rest of the property
Avoid dry sweeping or other dry methods when cleaning the work area
Use a negative air machine to redirect dusty air from within the work area to a safe, outside location
Protect Yourself as a Homeowner
As always, make sure you hire a qualified company to perform the work in your home. Look for companies that have verifiable credentials and certifications.
Be vigilant about the way your contractor conducts the work. If you see something you’re uncertain about, say something. It’s your property and a reputable contractor will be eager to keep you informed and satisfied throughout the process.
Stay Safe with EcoSafe!
Silica Dust should not be ignored. Reach out to us if you’d like more information about silica dust exposure before, during, or after your home renovation. Call the air quality experts at EcoSafe Environmental Services at 816-598-4111.
Call (816) 598-4111 or visit EcoSafeKC to learn more!
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