Silica Standard Field Guide for Small Contractors

A two-person crew running a handheld grinder on a concrete balcony can rack up silica exposures equal to a highway paving operation. OSHA's construction rule (1926.1153) does not care how many people you employ. It cares how you control dust. The difference between a citation and a clean inspection this year comes down to whether you can show the inspector you chose the right control for the task, verified it, trained people, and documented it.

Anchor Everything to Task Inventories

List every operation that can generate respirable crystalline silica: cutting block, drilling anchors, chipping tile, mixing mortar, changing filters in dust collectors. For each task, document the tool, blade, and vacuum or water delivery system. Then match those tasks to OSHA's Table 1. If the task is listed and you follow every control requirement, you do not need to perform exposure monitoring. If the task is not in Table 1 (for example, polishing stone countertops in a shop), you must assess exposure through monitoring or objective data. Write the decision so you can defend it.

Use Wet Methods and Vacuums Correctly

Water-fed saws only work when the water reaches the cut at the right flow rate. Vacuum shrouds only work when filters are intact and the vacuum has automatic filter cleaning. Assign someone to inspect equipment before every shift. Replace hoses when they kink, check flow with a simple graduated container, and document the findings. If your vacuum uses HEPA filters, keep spares on hand and log replacements. A clogged filter drives exposure through the roof and attracts immediate attention from OSHA.

Build an Exposure Assessment Binder

When Table 1 does not cover the task, you need data. Hire a qualified industrial hygienist or partner with a trade association that has objective data for similar work. Record sampling locations, task durations, control measures, and the results. Keep calibration records for sampling pumps and make sure the lab analyzing the filters is accredited. This binder becomes your proof that employees are below the action level or permissible exposure limit. Without it, you are guessing.

Train Crews Beyond the Toolbox Talk

OSHA expects you to train workers on the health effects of silica, the specific tasks that expose them, and the controls you use to protect them. Go beyond "wear your respirator" instructions. Show employees how to check vacuum seals, how to maintain water systems, and how to clean up without dry sweeping. Train them on the medical surveillance program and how to access their records. Reinforce the message at every mobilization so that controls stay intact even when you are rushing to finish a punch list.

Manage Respirators the Right Way

Table 1 tasks often require respirators when you exceed four hours in a shift or when you operate indoors. Do not wait until the inspector arrives to figure out who needs which respirator. Issue the correct APF and make sure each worker is medically cleared, fit tested, and trained. Document cartridge change-outs and storage. If you rely on powered air-purifying respirators for high-exposure tasks, maintain the batteries and clean them per the manufacturer's instructions. Respirators are your last line of defense; treat them accordingly.

Control the Work Area

Silica dust travels. Set up exclusion zones with signage, plastic sheeting, or temporary barriers to keep non-essential personnel away. Ventilate indoor spaces with negative air machines if you are grinding or drilling for long periods. When you finish, wet wipe or use HEPA vacuums. Dry sweeping and compressed air are prohibited unless no alternative exists and workers use respirators. Photograph the setup so you can demonstrate to clients and inspectors that you controlled migration.

Stay on Top of Paperwork

The standard requires a written exposure control plan, naming competent persons responsible for implementation. Update the plan every time you add a task, new tool, or control. Keep copies of training rosters, respirator fit tests, and medical surveillance offers. When OSHA launches a silica emphasis program in your region—and they will—you will already have the documents ready instead of scrambling.

Next step: Use the Worksafely SMB silica calculator to assign controls by task, attach monitoring data, and push reminders to crews before they mobilize.