Safety Practices When Diamond Grinding Concrete Floors

Concrete work is typically messy, time-consuming and physically demanding. Garage flooring specialists must also know the different hazards that come with grinding and polishing concrete. Airborne silica dust is just one of several dangers about which professionals must be aware.

In this post, we share basic information about silica dust and how experts protect themselves when grinding concrete floors.

The Dangers Of Silica Dust

Silica dust poses a serious risk to a person’s respiratory system. Concrete grinding fragmentizes the material and releases silica dust into the air. Prolonged exposure to silica dust may cause long-term damage to the respiratory system and the eyes. Proper respiratory equipment and safety goggles are essential to reduce the risk of inhaling silica dust and suffering from eye irritation.

Best Practices For Controlling Silica Dust

Here are some of the methods that professionals use to ensure their safety when grinding concrete garage floors:

• Wet Grinding Methods

Wet grinding is the best way to control dust levels when prepping concrete floors. Wet ports dampen the grinding and cutting area to reduce airborne dust.

• HEPA Vacuum and Dust Collection System

Industrial-grade HEPA vacuums and dust collection systems are especially useful during job site cleanup. They are designed to suck up dust at the source.

• Proper Use of Respirators

Concrete professionals, masons and construction workers typically wear respiratory protective equipment (RPE) on the worksite. They must ensure the proper fit of their respiratory devices for adequate protection. Disposable, half- or full-face respirators can be used, depending on the conditions on the job site.

• Safety Training

All workers must understand the dangers of silica dust and ways to protect themselves. Training seminars must be provided to employees and include dust control methods, prevention, use of RPEs, and proper cleaning techniques after grinding concrete.

You can get high-quality polyaspartic garage flooring from Guardian Garage Floors. Your slip-resistant and durable flooring await — call (615) 645-3696 or fill out this contact form to get started!