The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) defines abrasive blasting as “using compressed air or water to direct a high-velocity stream of an abrasive material to clean an object or surface, remove burrs, apply a texture or prepare a surface for the application of paint or other type of coating.” OSHA regulations governing General Industry, Construction, and Shipyards mandate the use of abrasive-blast respirators approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Blast respirators are Type-CE supplied-air respirators, commonly known as “blast helmets.” This article will review and explain the components and the requirements pertaining to the use of these respirators. The OSHA regulations requiring the use of Type-CE respirators are cited in Figure 2 below.
Understanding the Breathing-Air System in Abrasive Blasting Available to Purchase
Thomas E. Enger, MS, CSP, Chmm
Clemco Industries Corp.
With over 30 years of academic and practical experience in heavy construction, construction equipment manufacturing, and hazardous material management, Tom has an extensive background in applying federal, state and local regulatory requirements as well as the use of industry standards for preparing surfaces for today’s coatings.
Mr. Enger taught Applied Regulatory Requirements at Arizona State University and Maricopa Community College. He also has instructed both safety professionals and users of surface preparation equipment on complex regulatory requirements. His primary work is product safety and practices for Clemco Industries Corp.
Mr. Enger is board certified by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals and the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management.
