Industry Safety Resource · Concrete Grinding & Polishing
Silica Dust SafetyA worker safety guide
Protect your lungs. Control the dust. Grinding and polishing concrete can release respirable crystalline silica (RCS), very fine airborne dust that can penetrate deep into the lungs. Exposure can cause silicosis, lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease and kidney disease.
Silica dust can be invisible. Never judge exposure by sight alone.
Control Dust at the Source
Dry grinding
- Use a properly fitted grinding shroud.
- Connect a compatible industrial dust extractor with appropriate filtration (HEPA where required).
- Check airflow, hoses, seals and filters.
- Stop work if extraction fails.
Wet grinding
- Maintain consistent water delivery at the grinding head.
- Collect slurry before it dries; manage slip and electrical hazards.
Protect the Work Area
- Restrict access to active grinding areas.
- Use barriers and warning signs where needed.
- Prevent dust from spreading into occupied spaces.
- Assess ventilation, especially indoors.
Use Appropriate PPE
- Select respiratory protection based on the exposure assessment and local rules.
- Use suitable particulate filters (P100 where appropriate).
- Wear eye, hearing and protective equipment.
- Tight-fitting respirators require fit testing and training.
Respirators supplement, not replace, engineering controls.
Clean Up Safely
- Use suitable HEPA-filtered vacuum equipment or wet methods.
- Collect slurry before it dries.
- Dispose of dust and slurry safely.
Never dry sweep, use compressed air or blow silica dust around with leaf blowers.
Inspect & Maintain Equipment
- Check shrouds, hoses, connections, filters and seals.
- Monitor airflow and suction.
- Empty dust collectors safely.
- Maintain equipment according to manufacturer instructions.
If Dust Controls Fail
STOP WORK. Shut down safely, keep workers away, correct the problem and clean the affected area using approved methods. Resume only when effective controls are restored.
Your Health Is Worth Protecting
Every job. Every day.
More Information
OSHA: Silica, Crystalline · WorkSafeBC: Silica · CCOHS
Disclaimer: General educational information only. This guide does not replace a site-specific risk assessment, exposure control plan, respiratory protection program, equipment instructions or applicable occupational health and safety requirements. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, task and working conditions. Employers and workers must follow the rules that apply to their workplace.