Drywall, made of gypsum, is used to shape interior walls in houses. When sanding drywall, a person may be exposed to particles containing gypsum, crystalline silica, or in some older ones, asbestos. These particles can be dangerous for the health.
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How workers are exposed
Drywallers are at a high risk of being exposed to the fine dust produced when sanding drywall or joint tape. However, anyone working nearby is also at risk of inhaling this dust.
The risks
Drywall is safe to use as material for interior walls. The risks only arise when sanding drywall. The presence of dust and silica makes sanding hazardous. Inhaling this dust for a long period of time can lead to problems in the upper respiratory tract that resemble asthma. Inhaling silica can lead to silicosis and lung cancer.
Though it’s not believed that these are being used in BC, people should still be made aware of drywall that came from China during 2001 to 2007. This drywall was found to have sulfur compounds which emit toxic gases. Aside from causing complications in the upper respiratory tract, these can cause corrosion in electrical, plumbing, and HVAC components.
Another risk to be aware of with drywall is the risk of sprains or strains when a worker has to move or lift heavy drywall panels.
How to reduce the risks
To best protect a worker from the hazards of sanding drywall, the dust created by the process must be controlled. Use a vacuum system to effectively lessen airborne dust when sanding and cleaning. Refrain from dry sweeping the area and using compressed air.
If you suspect that asbestos is present in old gypsum boards – stay away from it and call a qualified asbestos abatement specialist to investigate and get rid of it.
Continue reading to learn more about some other controls you can implement when working with drywall:
Elimination or substitution
The best way to limit the hazards of exposure is to fully eliminate its source by substituting a safer method or component. Is it possible to use a drywall mud free from silica?
Engineering controls
Reducing the risks of exposure is also possible by making physical alterations to the facilities, types of machinery, and methods used. Can improvements be made to the ventilation system? Is it possible to create a system that can capture dust during sanding and clean up? Can areas being sanded be blocked off?
Administrative controls
Administrative controls include changes to rules and regulations, distribution of awareness materials, and training workers. All of these can help limit the risks of exposure to drywall dust and silica:
- Make sure workers are aware of work practices that lessen the need to sand
- Schedule sanding when the smallest number of workers are present
- Post warning signs in the work area
Personal protective equipment
Because this is the least efficient among all controls, it must be paired with another control. Are workers always wearing proper protective equipment such as respirators and goggles? Is personal protective equipment maintained and working?
Contact:
Working Safety Solutions
#200-4170 Still Creek Drive, Burnaby, B.C.
604-320-7850
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