OSHA 10-Hour Construction ReviewHealth Hazards in ConstructionMedium
A construction company is performing tasks that involve cutting and grinding materials containing crystalline silica. Which of the following engineering controls is MOST effective in reducing worker exposure to silica dust?
- AProviding N95 respirators to all workers.
- BUtilizing wet methods or local exhaust ventilation (LEV).
- CConducting daily safety briefings on silica hazards.
- DImplementing a strict rotation schedule for tasks.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Utilizing wet methods or local exhaust ventilation (LEV).
Engineering controls are the most effective way to reduce exposure to hazards because they remove or reduce the hazard at the source. Wet methods (e.g., water sprays) and local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems are highly effective at capturing or suppressing silica dust before it becomes airborne, thereby preventing worker exposure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. N95 respirators are personal protective equipment (PPE), which is lower on the hierarchy of controls than engineering controls.
- C. Daily safety briefings are administrative controls, primarily focused on awareness, not direct hazard reduction.
- D. Rotation schedules are administrative controls, which are less effective than engineering controls.
Silica Dust Engineering Controls
Engineering controls for silica dust aim to eliminate or reduce exposure at the source, typically involving methods like wet cutting/grinding or local exhaust ventilation systems.
- Most effective control method.
- Examples include wet methods, LEV, enclosed cabs.
- Reduces airborne dust generation.
Memory trick: Every Engineer Administers PPE for silica dust.