Abrasive blasting – an effective cleaning and restoration process
Safety Is Our No. 1 Priority When Abrasive Blasting and Applying Coatings.
Abrasive blasting is a building, equipment, and structure cleaning and restoration process that uses high-pressure compressed air and very small particles to remove corrosion, dirt, paint, and other unwanted layers of material. Cleaning and restoration can be much more affordable than replacement costs. Public safety is a priority when conducting cleaning and restoration activities.
Types of Abrasive Blasting
Depending on the application, blasting can be dry (without water) or wet (with water). Both dry and wet processes are very effective. The primary difference is that the dry process produces a large amount of airborne dust, whereas the wet process does not. The wet process is safer for workers, but hazards still exist.
Worker Protection
Workers are required to wear safety equipment, which can include
– Goggles
– Helmet
– Face shield
– Respirator
– Protective overalls or hazardous material removal type suit; and a
– Breathing apparatus with an air supply
Blasting operations can occur in enclosed spaces or in the open environment. The blasting specialists will take the necessary precautions to minimize or prevent damages and injuries to non-work areas and the general population.
Human and environmental safety must be the abrasive and blasting contractor’s priority. They have a legal and moral responsibility to protect everyone and the environment from harm.
Abrasive Particle Safety
Silica dust (sand) is one of the primary materials used for blasting media. Under normal conditions, such as on a beach, sand is safe to handle. However, the hazards and risks intensify when the tiny sand particles become airborne and inhaled. Many other materials are used in the abrasive blasting process, which can be harmful. The particles contain sharp edges and can cause injury to the lungs. Many respiratory and breathing problems can develop from inhaling sand particles.
Blasting is an efficient and cost-saving procedure to clean and restore industrial equipment, buildings, and public-use structures, such as bridges. The contractors and workers know and understand the benefits and hazards of their duties. They are trained and skilled professionals who will take all necessary precautions to protect themselves, people, and the environment.
It is important that you research and identify the corrosion protection and painting contractor to suit your needs and budget. It is also very important to know they will follow all the legal operating requirements for public and worker health and safety, as well as environmental protection actions. Cleaning and restoration expenses are your concern, but health and safety must always take precedence.
References
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/76-179/pdfs/76-179.pdf
“Abrasive Blasting and Applications of Protective Coatings”. Diamond PCS.
http://diamondpcs.com.au/pop_abrasiveblast.html
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/blasting/
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
“Engineering Control and Work Practice Method”. Enviro-Management & Research Inc., Washington, D.C. Final Report. U.S. Dept of Health Education, and Welfare. March 1976.
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/76-179/pdfs/76-179.pdf
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/blasting/
“Code of Practice. Abrasive Blasting”. Worksafe Western Australia Commission. June 2000.
http://www.commerce.wa.gov.au/worksafe/PDF/Codes_of_Practice/Code_abrasivs_blasti.pdf
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
“Copper Slag”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper_slag
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
“Garnet”. Mineral Zone.
http://www.mineralszone.com/minerals/garnet.html
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
“Ilmenite”. Mineral Zone.
http://www.mineralszone.com/minerals/ilmenite.html
Accessed 17 OCT 2011
“Industrial Abrasives”. Abrasive Technology. http://www.abrasive-blasting.net/
Accessed 17 OCT 2011