The construction chemicals division of BASF Corp. launched MasterSeal 940DR and MasterSeal 941DR as respirable crystalline silica-free aggregates for deck coatings.
Both aggregates were released at the 2019 World of Concrete show in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more coverage of the show, visit the CoatingsPro Magazine website for exclusive photo galleries and videos.
Role of OSHA Silica Standard
Respirable crystalline silica dust generated on a jobsite is one of the leading health and safety issues facing the construction industry, BASF explains, adding that workers who inhale crystalline silica particles can be at increased risk of developing serious silica-related health issues.
To meet strengthened silica standards for construction from the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers need to limit worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica.
Aggregates in Deck Coatings
Aggregates are commonly used in deck coating applications for both vehicular and pedestrian surfaces to provide slip resistance and durability. However, incorporating standard silica-based aggregates into the coating can generate dust that may contain respirable crystalline silica.
To address this concern, MasterSeal 940DR and MasterSeal 941DR both contain zero respirable crystalline silica, while maintaining all the advantages of standard aggregate, according to the company.
MasterSeal 940DR and MasterSeal 941DR have different particle sizes that meet both pedestrian and vehicular traffic needs.
“BASF continually invests in solutions that keep the safety of our industry partners a top priority,” said Jay Patel, industry sector manager for BASF’s construction division. “Our new aggregates are the latest development in our effort to provide safer jobsite solutions, joining BASF’s line of low-dust concrete repair mortars and grouts.”
For more information, contact: BASF Construction Chemicals, (800) 433-9517, www.master-builders-solutions.basf.us
