Silica Exposure Control Plan Generator
Generate a written ECP per OSHA 1926.1153(g). Defaults to the Alternative Exposure Control pathway with Type CE supplied-air respirators — the correct setup for abrasive blasting.
This tool generates guidance documents only. Not a substitute for professional safety consultation. Review with a qualified professional before use.
Regulatory references
- Written ECP requirement: OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1153(g)
- Alternative Exposure Control: 1926.1153(d)(2) — required when task is not on Table 1
- Respiratory protection program: 29 CFR 1910.134(c)
- Type CE abrasive-blast respirator: 42 CFR Part 84, Subpart K
- Grade D breathing air: CGA G-7.1, referenced in 1910.134(i)(7)
- Medical surveillance: 1926.1153(i) — exams within 30 days of assignment
This tool is for guidance only. BlastBid is not a safety consultant, law firm, or OSHA-authorized trainer. The output is a starting template — have it reviewed by a qualified safety professional before relying on it for compliance.
Common questions
Why can't sandblasters use OSHA Table 1?+
Table 1 in 29 CFR 1926.1153 lists specific tasks with pre-determined control methods. Abrasive blasting is not on Table 1, so blasters must use the Alternative Exposure Control method under 1926.1153(d)(2). This requires a written ECP, exposure assessment, and documented controls specific to your operations.
What respirator does OSHA require for sandblasting?+
For abrasive blasting with any media that could generate respirable dust, OSHA requires a Type CE abrasive-blast supplied-air respirator (a full hood with external air supply). Half-mask respirators with cartridges are not sufficient for the blaster — though they may be used by adjacent workers at lower exposure levels. Breathing air must meet Grade D standards.
What is Grade D breathing air?+
Grade D is the OSHA minimum for supplied-air respirators. It requires: oxygen between 19.5-23.5%, CO below 10 ppm, CO2 below 1,000 ppm, no detectable oil mist, and no harmful gases. You need a CO monitor with an alarm on the air supply line — continuous monitoring is the standard practice for blasting operations.
How often do I need to update my Exposure Control Plan?+
Review and update your ECP at least annually, or whenever you change media types, equipment, work methods, or work locations. If an exposure monitoring result comes back above the Action Level (25 µg/m³), update the plan with additional controls and re-monitor within 6 months.
Is this generator a substitute for hiring a safety consultant?+
No. This tool produces a starting template based on OSHA requirements for abrasive blasting. It defaults to the correct regulatory pathway (Alternative Exposure Control, Type CE, Grade D), but your specific operations may have additional requirements. Have a qualified safety professional review the plan before presenting it to an inspector or GC.
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