Concrete Cutting Silica Dust Exposure Checklist

Is the concrete cutting task listed in OSHA's Table 1?

Is there a written exposure control plan addressing silica hazards, as required by OSHA?

Has a competent person been designated to implement and oversee the silica exposure control plan?

Does the implemented control method (wet cutting, HEPA vacuum) precisely match the requirements specified in Table 1 for the specific cutting task?

If Table 1 is NOT followed, has an alternative exposure assessment (objective data or scheduled monitoring) been conducted to determine worker exposure levels?

If objective data is used, is it readily available and representative of current working conditions?

Are housekeeping practices in place to minimize visible dust accumulation (e.g., regular cleanup of dust and debris)?

Have all workers received training on silica hazards, control methods, and proper respirator use?

Is a medical surveillance program in place for workers exposed to silica at or above the action level?

Are records of exposure monitoring, objective data, and medical surveillance maintained as required?

Is the water supply sufficient to continuously suppress dust at the cutting point?

Are water spray nozzles in good working condition, properly positioned, and free from obstructions?

Is the water flow rate adequate to visibly suppress dust during cutting operations?

Is there a system in place to contain and manage slurry runoff to prevent environmental contamination?

If potable water is used, is backflow prevention in place to protect the water supply?

Is the slurry being disposed of in accordance with local environmental regulations?

Is the wet cutting equipment properly maintained to ensure effective dust suppression?

Does the wet cutting method reduce visibility, creating other hazards? Are additional controls in place (e.g., lighting)?

Is the HEPA vacuum certified to meet HEPA filter standards (99.97% efficiency at 0.3 microns)?

Is the HEPA filter intact and free from damage or leaks?

Are vacuum hoses in good condition, properly connected, and free from obstructions?

Is the vacuum providing adequate suction at the cutting point to capture dust?

Is the dust collection receptacle properly sealed and emptied regularly to prevent overfilling?

Is there a documented filter replacement schedule based on manufacturer's recommendations and usage?

Are maintenance records kept for the HEPA vacuum, including filter replacements and repairs?

Is the vacuum exhaust directed away from workers and other areas where dust could be re-entrained?

Is a pre-use inspection of the HEPA vacuum conducted daily to ensure proper functioning?

Are workers provided with respirators appropriate for the level of silica exposure, as determined by Table 1 or exposure assessment?

Have workers been fit-tested for their respirators within the past year?

Have workers been medically evaluated to ensure they are able to wear a respirator?

Have workers been trained on the proper use, maintenance, and storage of their respirators?

Are workers performing a user seal check each time they put on their respirator?

Are respirators stored in a clean, dry place to prevent damage or contamination?

Are respirators cleaned and disinfected regularly?

Is a written respiratory protection program in place, as required by OSHA?

Do workers have facial hair that interferes with the respirator seal?