When using handheld and stand-mounted drills, including impact and rotary hammer drills, to drill holes in concrete, masonry, and other silica-containing materials, it's crucial to be aware that this activity can generate respirable crystalline silica dust. The inhalation of these tiny silica particles over time can lead to irreversible lung damage.

To address potential exposure, WorkCover Queensland advises the following controls in line with the Managing respirable crystalline silica in construction and manufacturing of construction elements code of practice 2022 (PDF, 1.71 MB) (the Code):

Use suitable engineering controls

Choose one of the following engineering control options:

• Utilize a commercially available shroud or cowling with a tool-mounted HEPA filtered dust collector.
• Implement a commercially available shroud or cowling with an on-tool capture hood connected to a dust extractor/vacuum that meets or exceeds the minimum airflow requirements recommended by the tool manufacturer and is rated to either M-Class or H-Class. Note: Use an M or H class vacuum when cleaning drilling holes.

Dust collection systems

Using a shroud or cowling connected to a dust collection system effectively controls exposure to respirable crystalline silica when employing handheld or stand-mounted drills for drilling into concrete and other silica-containing materials.

Commercially available dust collection systems come in various designs, including a dust collection device (shroud or cowling), vacuum, hose, filter, and filter-cleaning mechanism. These systems can either integrate into the tools or function as add-on systems.

The dust collection system should include a:

• Shroud or cowling sized to fit around the drill bit.
• Dust collector rated to provide the airflow recommended by the tool manufacturer or greater and either:
  • A tool-mounted HEPA-filtered dust collector.
  • An on-tool capture hood connected to a dust extraction system rated to either M or H-Class following AS60335.2.69.

Operate and maintain the drill and vacuum dust collection system according to the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.

Keep the vacuum hose clear and free of debris, kinks, and tight bends. Activate non-automatic filter-cleaning mechanisms as needed to reduce dust build-up on the filter. Change vacuum-collection bags as needed. Establish a schedule for filter cleaning and maintenance. Avoid exposure to dust when changing vacuum bags and cleaning or replacing air filters. Clean the dust and debris from the drilled holes—a HEPA-filtered vacuum system must be used to capture the dust.

Select appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE)

RPE is not required for the use of handheld drills or stand-mounted drills.