Work health and safety regulations prohibit the use of silica for abrasive blasting. Below are resources which provide guidance on preventing silica dust exposure in the abrasive blasting industry.
In the past, sand was commonly used for abrasive blasting. Sand is made up of crystalline silica and, during the blasting process, it can be broken down into respirable crystalline silica.
Using abrasive blasting mediums containing more than 1% crystalline silica is prohibited under work health and safety laws. This means that you cannot use river sand, beach sand and other white sand for abrasive blasting. Safer alternatives which can be used are:
- Ilmenite
- aluminium oxide
- garnet
- crushed glass
- glass bead
- metal shot
- granulated plastic
- metal slag (although some may contain high levels of lead and chromium, which can present other health, safety and environmental risks).
Safe Work Australia
This Code provides practical guidance for persons conducting a business or undertaking on how to manage health and safety risks associated with abrasive blasting. This Code applies to all workplaces covered by the WHS Act where abrasive blasting processes are carried out and where abrasive blasting products and equipment are used and stored.