Your Safety Matters: Protecting Your Lungs When Using Stationary Masonry Saws

Introduction

Your well-being is a priority when working with stationary masonry saws, which can generate harmful respirable crystalline silica dust. Prolonged exposure to this dust can lead to irreversible lung damage. Protecting your health and ensuring a safe work environment is vital. Explore the steps below to safeguard yourself and understand potential compensation options in case of a workplace accident or injury.

Step 1: Employing Engineering Controls

To minimize silica dust exposure, choose from the following engineering control options:

Wet Cutting with Continuous Water Feed
- Wet cutting effectively reduces dust when an integrated water delivery system continually wets the blade.
- Ensure the saw is operated per the manufacturer’s instructions for minimal dust emissions.
- Regularly inspect hoses and maintain proper water flow rates.
- Adjust nozzles to direct water to the blade.
- Replace water filters and basin water as recommended.
- Always check the blade's condition before use.
Dust Collection Systems (Dust Extraction)
- Capture dust with a dust collection system.
- Options include an integrated HEPA-filtered dust collection system or a commercially available dust collection system meeting air flow requirements.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

Select the appropriate RPE based on the engineering controls, work duration, and work environment.

RPE Requirements:

Wet Cutting: RPE not required
Dust Extraction (Outdoors or Indoors/Enclosed Area): P1 or P2 filtered RPE with a Minimum Protection Factor (MPF) of 10 is necessary.

Fit-testing is essential for tight-fitting RPE, ensuring the correct make and model for each worker. Consult section 7.6 of the Code for detailed fit-testing and RPE usage requirements.

Health Monitoring

A PCBU must provide health monitoring to workers who use RPE 30 times or more in 12 months. Detailed information on health monitoring requirements can be found in section 10 of the Code.

Compensation and Your Rights

In the unfortunate event of a workplace accident or injury, you may be eligible for compensation to support your treatment and recovery. Compensation may include lost wages, medical expenses, chest screening, rehabilitation services, and more. Learn more about potential compensation through the provided resources.

Seeking Further Information

This information is essential to protect your health and well-being. For comprehensive guidance and resources related to work-related respiratory conditions and compensation claims, refer to:

Your safety is paramount, and understanding your rights and protections is crucial.