Grit blasting: How to mitigate risk of lung disease

Grit blasting is essential for surface preparation, cleaning, and coating applications. However, without proper precautions, it poses serious respiratory health risks. Inhalation of fine dust particles from abrasive materials and blasted surfaces can lead to long-term lung diseases. Understanding these risks and implementing effective safety measures is crucial for protecting workers.

Understanding the risks

Exposure to airborne dust and abrasive particles in grit blasting can cause several respiratory conditions, including:

• Silicosis: A lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, leading to inflammation and scarring.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Long-term exposure to fine particulates can contribute to conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis.
• Lung cancer: Some abrasive materials and coatings contain hazardous substances that can increase the risk of cancer with prolonged exposure.

Workplace exposure limits (WELs) & regulations

Employers have a legal obligation to control exposure to hazardous substances under the UK’s Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations. Key requirements include:

• Adhering to workplace exposure limits (WELs) set by the HSE for hazardous dust.
• Conducting risk assessments to identify potential exposure hazards.
• Implementing control measures such as ventilation and PPE to minimise worker exposure.
• Regular air quality monitoring to ensure compliance with safety standards. Airblast Eurospray provides nationwide breathing air quality testing to ensure operator safety and help employers meet legal obligations. Schedule a test here.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Wearing appropriate PPE is essential for safeguarding workers from airborne contaminants. Key PPE includes:

• Blast helmets with air supply
• Respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
• Protective clothing
• Regular PPE maintenance

You can see our full range of PPE available here.

Dust extraction & ventilation

Effective dust control systems significantly reduce airborne contamination in blasting environments. Best practices include:

• Installing dust extraction systems: Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems capture airborne dust at the source.
• Using downdraft tables and booths: Enclosures with built-in extraction systems prevent dust spread.
• Routine maintenance: Regular cleaning and filter replacements keep extraction systems working efficiently.

Airblast Eurospray offers nationwide servicing to ensure equipment efficiency and compliance with legal standards. Book a service via email at servicing@airblast.co.uk, or call 01778 560650.

Safe work practices & training

Proper training and adherence to safe work practices can greatly reduce the risk of lung disease in grit blasting operations. Employers should:

• Stress the importance of PPE and train workers on how to use respirator equipment when blasting.
• Ensure proper housekeeping by regularly cleaning work areas to prevent dust accumulation and conducting frequent checks of the dust extraction system.
• Implement risk assessments and monitoring to identify potential hazards before work begins.
• Educate employees on early symptoms of respiratory illness and encourage regular health checks.

Airblast Eurospray can provide training for all our products to help operators use equipment safely and efficiently. For more details, head to our website.

Dustless or dust mitigated abrasive blasting methods

Using alternative blasting methods can help reduce dust exposure (if appropriate). Consider:

• Wet blasting: Mixing water with abrasive media to suppress dust generation and create a cleaner working environment. Discover wet blasting here.
• Vacuum blasting: A contained system that removes dust at the point of impact for minimal exposure. Explore vacuum blasting here.

Health surveillance & monitoring

Regular health monitoring helps detect early signs of occupational lung disease. Under The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002, employers must:

• Inform workers of potential health risks.
• Provide training on procedures to reduce exposure to hazardous dust.
• Supply necessary PPE and enforce its correct usage.
• Encourage early reporting of respiratory symptoms, such as shortness of breath or persistent cough.
• Maintain records of exposure levels and health screenings for long-term worker protection.

Conclusion

Grit blasting is an essential process in many industries, but it comes with serious health risks. By following proper safety protocols, using appropriate PPE, and implementing effective dust control measures, companies can significantly reduce the risk of lung disease. Investing in worker training and health surveillance ensures long-term safety and compliance with regulations.

For more information on workplace safety, visit the HSE website, or consult one of our experts in blasting health and safety solutions here.