Sandblasting is a particular process in which metal parts are cleaned by mechanical means using either sand or aluminium oxide.
Dry sandblasting may be of the conventional (open loop) type or of the suction (closed loop) type. The closed-loop sandblasting activity involves the insertion of the pieces to be treated in a completely sealed sandblasting machine. In the case of conventional sandblasting, though, no means is provided to either reduce the hazard caused by the processing dust produced or for the recovery of the abrasive material.
Risks faced by workers during sandblasting activities
Although it may seem simple and repetitive work there are numerous occupational hazards which workers involved with sandblasting activities face, including:
- hearing loss caused by a particularly noisy work environment;
- respiratory diseases due to inhalation of fine particles;
- possible trauma and crushing due to displacement of heavy objects;
- trauma affecting the arms due to vibrations;
- fire hazard due to the presence of combustible substances.
How to protect oneself during sandblasting work
To avoid all possible risks, workers need to be trained on all major safety standards to be applied during the sandblasting process and provided with appropriate PPE which include:
- Ear protectors and earplugs to protect against noise;
- Face masks and respirators to protect the upper respiratory tract;
- Anti-vibration gloves to protect against equipment vibrations;
- Protective suits, sandblasting gloves and appropriate footwear to protect against falls and injuries.
In addition to the above mentioned risks, sandblasters also frequently suffer from stress caused by repetitive work and the use of particular chemical substances. In both cases the employer is to arrange for periodic medical check-ups, as well as establish an adequate number of breaks during the work shift in order to fully protect the safety and health of his workers.
Kasco srl., manufactures various types of personal protective equipment. The K80 T8 respirator , for example, is one of the RPD devices recommended for sandblasting. This is a respirator composed by a helmet with T8 control unit and particulate filters.
Mar 22 2017
How to avoid occupational hazards when sandblasting
Dry sandblasting may be of the conventional (open loop) type or of the suction (closed loop) type. The closed-loop sandblasting activity involves the insertion of the pieces to be treated in a completely sealed sandblasting machine. In the case of conventional sandblasting, though, no means is provided to either reduce the hazard caused by the processing dust produced or for the recovery of the abrasive material.
Risks faced by workers during sandblasting activities
Although it may seem simple and repetitive work there are numerous occupational hazards which workers involved with sandblasting activities face, including:
How to protect oneself during sandblasting work
To avoid all possible risks, workers need to be trained on all major safety standards to be applied during the sandblasting process and provided with appropriate PPE which include:
In addition to the above mentioned risks, sandblasters also frequently suffer from stress caused by repetitive work and the use of particular chemical substances. In both cases the employer is to arrange for periodic medical check-ups, as well as establish an adequate number of breaks during the work shift in order to fully protect the safety and health of his workers.
Kasco srl., manufactures various types of personal protective equipment. The K80 T8 respirator , for example, is one of the RPD devices recommended for sandblasting. This is a respirator composed by a helmet with T8 control unit and particulate filters.
By Kasco Srl • Blog, News •