Silica Awareness

Caliber Construction Alaska Silica Awareness Policy

Overview: Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral commonly found in materials such as sand, stone, concrete, and mortar. When these materials are manipulated through activities like cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling, and crushing, respirable crystalline silica particles are created. Inhalation of these particles poses serious health risks to workers, including silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease.

Regulatory Compliance: To safeguard workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica, Caliber Construction Alaska adheres to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards pertaining to silica exposure in construction activities.

Engineering and Work Practice Controls:

• Engineering controls, such as wet methods and ventilation systems, will be employed to minimize exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
• Work practice controls, including housekeeping measures, regular inspections, and scheduling practices, will be implemented to further mitigate exposure risks.
• Dry sweeping or brushing of dust containing silica is prohibited. Instead, HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaners followed by wet mopping or sweeping will be used.
• Compressed air shall not be used to clean clothing contaminated with silica dust. HEPA-filtered vacuuming and laundering of clothing are the recommended methods.
• Disposable or launderable coveralls will be provided to minimize dust transfer, and HEPA-filtered vacuuming shall be used before removing them.

Specified Exposure Control Methods (SECM):

• Supervisors and competent persons will ensure that engineering controls, work practices, and respiratory protection are utilized as specified for employees working with materials containing crystalline silica.
• SECM will be established for tasks and equipment involving silica exposure, and adherence to manufacturer instructions for minimizing dust emissions will be emphasized.

Medical Surveillance:

• Employees required to use respirators for 30 or more days per year due to silica exposure will undergo medical evaluations at no cost.
• Medical evaluations will include a comprehensive medical and work history, physical examination, chest x-ray, pulmonary function test, tuberculosis test, and any additional tests recommended by the Occupational Physician.
• Fit testing, training, and annual medical clearance for respirator use are mandatory for employees requiring respiratory protection.

Training and Awareness:

• All employees will receive training on the hazards of crystalline silica exposure, proper use of engineering controls and personal protective equipment, and emergency response procedures.
• Regular awareness campaigns and toolbox talks will be conducted to reinforce silica safety protocols and promote a culture of safety among employees.

Policy Review: This Silica Awareness Policy will be reviewed annually to ensure alignment with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. Updates and revisions will be made as necessary to enhance the effectiveness of silica exposure prevention measures.

By adhering to this policy, Caliber Construction Alaska aims to protect the health and well-being of its employees and mitigate the risks associated with exposure to respirable crystalline silica.