Environmental Services Group (ESG) was retained to conduct an industrial hygiene survey assessing silica exposure at a tile distribution and showroom facility. This assessment was mandated by Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development (MOLITSD) following an anonymous complaint regarding conditions in the tile cutting and sample preparation rooms.
Scope of Work:
The survey involved task-based and full-shift air sampling to measure airborne concentrations of respirable silica during tile-cutting activities. The goal was to determine if silica exposure exceeded occupational exposure limits and to provide recommendations for hazard mitigation.
Key Activities:
- Conducted initial site walkthrough and collaborated with the MOLITSD inspector and facility representatives to finalize a sampling plan.
- Collected two personal and two area samples on a representative workday.
- Observed worker practices and evaluated engineering and administrative controls in the cutting and sample preparation rooms.
- Performed laboratory analysis of respirable silica samples through an accredited third-party lab.
Findings and Recommendations:
- Silica concentrations in the cutting room were found to exceed regulated occupational exposure limits during tile cutting.
- Administrative controls, including limiting cutting task duration and ensuring the cutting room door remains closed, were advised.
- Recommended installation of local exhaust ventilation or relocating cutting activities to a larger, better-ventilated area, such as the main warehouse.
- Suggested implementing a respiratory protection program compliant with CSA standards and treating water used in wet cutting tables to mitigate biohazard risks.
Outcome:
The survey results and ESG’s recommendations provided the client with actionable steps to reduce silica exposure and comply with occupational health regulations, safeguarding worker health and meeting provincial standards.
