Since the old days, concrete has used as a building material. Thanks to its durability and endurance. During the expansion or renovation project, there is a constant need to cut concrete whether to create a space for wiring or pipes or remove an existing region. Concrete cutting is a dirty job, and this process generates dust that might contain crystalline silica (a deadly compound) that when exposed to air can cause serious health issues like silicosis (it’s a non-curable lung disorder caused by the buildup of silica dust in the lungs) tuberculosis and more. So, it’s a good idea to hire best demolition Winnipeg agency.
Crystalline silica is commonly found in quartz, flint, sand, and slate. Dust usually arises when concrete is grounded, cut, or crushed using saw. It settles in the lungs and causes scar tissue to develop. This tissue lowers the ability of lungs to take in oxygen. As per OSHA site, these signs rarely develop in less than 5 years. Garbage to handle demolition in Winnipeg! We do hand demolition of interiors, and we can also handle large-scale jobs like concrete breaking. But in most of the cases, it may take two years or more to identify the issue. There is no cure for silicosis, but you can prevent it by taking proper measures.
NIOSH (National Institute of Occupation Safety and Health) has advised the exposure limit for airborne silica as 0.05 mg/ per cubic meter for up to 10 hours/day during a 40-hour work week. This agency also has specific rules for concrete cutting and dust containment. If any employer spot silica dust on the work site, OSHA advices to take it seriously. It means that crystalline silica may be present even if no dust is present.
Methods of Control:
OSHA states that employer must use the best possible strategy to lower or eliminate the exposure of silica dust. The agency advice three methods of controlling exposure while cutting concrete:
- a) Engineering Controls: It keeps silica dust out of air. This includes using a hose to water the region, wet cutting, dust collection system, exhaust ventilation.
- b) PPE: It’s a temporary solution that can be used to control exposure. It also prevents most accidents and injuries during concrete cutting and coring. PPE includes masks and respirators.
- c) Administrative Actions: This includes enhancing work practices. Highly skilled and knowledgeable employers are more likely to take necessary precautions on the job site. It’s good to have regular meetings with employees so that they become aware of silica dust. Just note that prevention of silica dust can begin before the first cut is made.
Best Way to Prevent Risk
If you’re engaged in a concrete cutting or demolition work and have worries about how to safely eliminate the leftovers or extra concrete, then it’s a good idea to consider a top-notch demolition agency ‘Smashers Demolition’. It offers fast, safe, and reliable demolition and asbestos/mould remediation services to their clients at best rates. Each skilled demolition Manitoba contractor follows OSHA rules for controlling concrete dust exposure during demolition.
Smashers Demolition 