LessonMembers
Silica, Dust, Noise & Respiratory Hazard Awareness
A 12-minute awareness lesson for pavement crews: where silica dust comes from on our jobs, why water and vacuum come before respirators, what Table 1 is, how respirator fit testing works, the OSHA 90 dBA and NIOSH 85 dBA noise limits, and asphalt fume and sealer SDS basics.
You will be able to
- Name the pavement tasks most likely to make respirable silica dust.
- Explain why water or vacuum controls come before a respirator.
- Describe what Table 1 is, how its 4-hour columns work, and what applies to tasks not on it.
- State the difference between a disposable N95 and an elastomeric half-mask respirator, and why fit testing and medical evaluation matter.
- Use the 3-foot voice test to decide when hearing protection is needed and explain the NIOSH 85 dBA and OSHA 90 dBA limits.
- Recognize asphalt fume symptoms and use the SDS to find the protection a product calls for.
The full lesson is included with NPMCA membership. Sign in with your member account to open it.
Educational only. Your employer is responsible for the safety and compliance program on your job. Talk to a qualified professional where a decision depends on it.