Respirable Crystalline Silica Awareness Training (Cal/OSHA)

Duration: 2 Hours

Format: Classroom Training + Final Exam

Course Description:

NATEC’s Respirable Crystalline Silica Awareness Training is designed to provide employees with an NATEC’s Respirable Crystalline Silica Awareness Training is designed to provide employees with an understanding of the hazards associated with silica exposure and the requirements for controlling those hazards in accordance with Cal/OSHA Title 8 §1532.3 (Construction).

This course focuses on increasing awareness of where silica hazards are present, how exposure occurs, and the measures required to protect workers from silica-related illnesses. Participants will learn how to recognize exposure risks and understand the importance of engineering controls, work practices, and personal protective equipment.

Target Audience:

• Construction workers exposed to silica-generating tasks
• Laborers, operators, and trades
• Supervisors and foremen
• Safety personnel

Course Objectives:

• Define respirable crystalline silica and identify common sources
• Recognize tasks that may expose workers to silica
• Understand health hazards associated with silica exposure
• Identify methods used to control exposure
• Understand the importance of housekeeping and work practices
• Recognize the purpose of the employer’s silica control plan

Course Content:

Regulations & Requirements:

• Overview of Cal/OSHA §1532.3
• Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL)
• Employer responsibilities

Health Hazards:

• Silicosis
• Lung cancer and respiratory diseases

Sources of Exposure:

• Cutting, grinding, drilling, demolition
• Materials such as concrete, brick, stone

Exposure Controls:

• Engineering controls (wet methods, ventilation)
• Administrative controls
• Table 1 overview

Work Practices:

• Proper housekeeping
• Dust control methods

PPE:

• Respiratory protection basics
• Limitations

Medical Surveillance:

• Awareness of requirements

Evaluation & Certification:

Participants must successfully complete a final written exam. Documentation is provided upon successful completion.