What steps can employers take to prevent silicosis in workers who work with crystalline silica?
• Use abrasive blasting materials that are less hazardous than those containing more than 1% crystalline silica. Because substitute abrasives may also have toxic effects, NIOSH recommends the use of engineering controls, work practices, and respiratory protection for all abrasive blasting, regardless of the type of abrasive used. • Recognize situations in which silica dust may be generated; plan to eliminate or control dust at its source. • Inform workers about their exposures to crystalline silica dust, the possible health effects of this dust, and the risk of silicosis. • Establish effective programs for monitoring the exposure of workers to crystalline silica dust. Conduct air monitoring to measure worker exposure and check that controls are working properly. • Train workers about safe work practices to reduce exposure to crystalline silica. For example, workers should remove dust from equipment with a water hose instead of compressed air. Use vacuums with high-efficiency particulat
