Particulate Matter: Particulate matter generated during abrasive blasting poses significant risks to workers. This includes potential eye damage, severe lacerations, and skin penetrations. To mitigate these risks, a person conducting a business or undertaking should ensure proper equipment usage, including blast equipment with safety features, uncoiled blast hoses, and appropriate personal protective equipment.
Dusts: Toxic dust, such as silica and lead dust, can result from abrasive blasting. Silica dust, in particular, can cause permanent lung damage and increase the risk of developing respiratory illnesses and cancer. Employers should avoid using abrasive materials containing hazardous substances and provide health monitoring for workers exposed to toxic dust.
Coatings and Solvents: Coatings and solvents used in abrasive blasting may contain hazardous chemicals, leading to health risks for workers. Employers must assess the safety of these products, provide safety data sheets, and implement measures to minimize exposure, such as proper ventilation and personal protective equipment.
Noise and Vibration: Abrasive blasting operations generate noise and vibration, which can damage hearing and cause conditions like vibration white finger. Employers should implement controls to reduce noise and vibration levels, including using quieter equipment, providing hearing protection, and rotating job tasks to minimize exposure.
Fire and Explosion: The dust produced during abrasive blasting can be explosive, while solvents and coatings used may pose fire hazards. Employers must adhere to electrical safety standards, control ignition sources, and store flammable substances properly to prevent fire and explosion incidents.
By understanding these hazards and implementing appropriate safety measures, workers can protect themselves from harm while engaging in abrasive blasting activities. For detailed guidance on addressing these risks, refer to the Abrasive Blasting Code of Practice 2021 and relevant regulatory standards.
Reference:
- less dangerous abrasive materials (PDF, 1.13 MB)
- Schedule 10, Table 10.3 of Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 .
- AS/NZS 1715 Selection, Use and Maintenance of Respiratory Protective Devices.
- AS/NZS 3000:2007 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules).
- earthing equipment (PDF, 1.25 MB)
- storing all flammable substances (PDF, 1.21 MB)
- Abrasive blasting code of practice 2021 (PDF, 1.13 MB) (parts A and B)
- Section 355 of the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011.