CSLB C-33 Painting & DecoratingSafetyHard
A painting contractor is preparing to remove old paint from a building facade using abrasive blasting (sandblasting). This process generates significant dust and debris. Which of the following is the MOST critical personal protective equipment (PPE) for the blast operator?
- AHearing protection and steel-toe boots
- BHard hat and safety glasses
- CType CE abrasive-blast respirator and protective outer garments
- DFull-body harness with a shock-absorbing lanyard
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Type CE abrasive-blast respirator and protective outer garments
Abrasive blasting generates high levels of dust, including silica (from sand) and potentially lead or other heavy metals from old paint. A Type CE abrasive-blast respirator provides positive pressure and protects against both respiratory and impact hazards, making it the most critical PPE.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Hearing protection and steel-toe boots are important but do not address the primary respiratory and impact hazards of blasting.
- B. Hard hat and safety glasses are general PPE but insufficient for the intense hazards of abrasive blasting.
- D. A full-body harness is for fall protection and is not directly related to the immediate hazards of abrasive blasting itself, unless working at heights.
Abrasive Blasting PPE
Abrasive blasting requires specialized PPE, primarily a Type CE abrasive-blast respirator, to protect against severe respiratory hazards, impact, and noise.
- Type CE respirators supply clean air and protect the head, face, and neck.
- Silica dust from blasting sand can cause silicosis.
- Protective outer garments shield against abrasive rebound and debris.
Memory trick: Blast Booth Breathes Best with Body Barriers.