A New Guidance issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) alerts shipyard employers and their employees about abrasive blasting hazards and the controls that can be implemented to protect employees.
The new guidance focuses on silica alternatives since most shipyards have moved away from using silica as a blasting agent. However, alternative blasting materials may bring a different set of hazards.
The new guidance also addresses the specific air contaminants that employees may be exposed to during abrasive blasting. OSHA also recommends that employers perform an inspection of the worksite to identify additional hazards, such as excessive noise, static electricity, confined spaces, heat exposure and fall hazards.
To learn more and to print a copy of the Guidance Document go to ABRASIVE BLASTING HAZARDS IN SHIPYARD EMPLOYMENT.
