Handheld Grinders: OSHA-Compliant Dust Control Methods
Handheld Grinding is covered in Table 1 (xii) of the regulation. According to the standard, you do not need to measure workers’ exposure to silica if any of following criteria is met:
1) Use a grinder equipped with an integrated water delivery system that continuously feeds water to the cutting surface. The integrated water delivery system can be a free-flowing water system designed for blade cooling as well as manufacturers’ systems designed for dust suppression alone.
Operate and maintain the tool in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.
OR
2) Use a grinder equipped with a commercially available shroud and dust collection system.
Operate and maintain the tool in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize dust emissions.
The dust collector must provide 25 cubic feet per minute (25 CFM) or greater of airflow per inch of wheel diameter and have a filter with 99% or greater efficiency and a cyclonic pre-separator or filter-cleaning mechanism.
Respiratory Protection:
If an integrated water delivery system is used, respiratory protection is not required, no matter how long the shift is.
If a shift is indoors or in an enclosed area AND more than four hours, respiratory protection of APF 10 must be provided.
Let’s Talk About Your Dust Collector...
How big does it need to be?
According to the rule above, your dust collector must provide 25 CFM for every inch of cutting blade. So if you’re using a 5-inch blade, you need a dust collector with at least 125 CFM. If you switch to a 7-inch blade, your dust collector must provide at least 175 CFM.
What about the filter?
OSHA’s new rule also requires that you use either
What else do I need to know?
Full and proper implementation of dust collection systems on handheld grinders also requires the employer to ensure that:
Let’s Talk About Respiratory Protection...
According to the rule above, respiratory protection is not required when using a water-based dust suppression system, regardless of task duration.
When dry dust collection systems are used, respiratory protection with a minimum APF of 10 is required, but only when engaged in a task indoors or in an enclosed location for more than four hours per shift.
Jon-Don carries a full line of Certified and Tested HEPA Dust Extractors, as well as hoses, wands and all accessories needed to comply with Table 1 of the OSHA regulation.
This model provides 129 CFM and 100" of water life, making it ideal for use with small concrete hand grinders, drills, and other power tools up to 5" in blade diameter. Use this machine for cleanup in between concrete grinding passes or as a general construction vacuum.
This dust collector features dual 120-volt motors that provide extremely high suction. It delivers 258 CFM and 100 inches of water lift, which is more than enough power to handle any small to mid-size planetary floor grinder as well as handheld tools.
This model features three large, commercial-grade motors and provides 353 CFM and 100" of water lift, making it ideal for use with small to mid-size planetary floor grinders, all hand tools, and small walk-behind saws.
This 7-inch Ermator shroud kit attaches to any 7-inch hand grinder and features a convertible hinge that allows it to grind right up next to walls and edges. This handy accessory protects the operator from concrete dust and debris.
The Ermator Deluxe Dust Shroud is designed to provide superior dust control. With features like a unique flip-top front, an adjustable built-in air vent, and multi-fit vacuum cleaner port with rubber diaphragm, you get the performance and dust control you expect from an Ermator product.
The Ermator Deluxe Dust Shroud offers superior dust control plus user-friendly features, like a unique flip-top front, suction vent control, guide rollers, and swivel hose connection. After just one use, it will become your preferred go-to dust shroud for all hand-grinding applications.