Implement OSHA-compliant silica dust controls for a tuckpointing crew using handheld grinders for mortar removal, per 29 CFR 1926.1153 Table 1

Steps

1. Confirm the specific Table 1 entry for 'handheld grinders used for mortar removal (tuckpointing)' in 29 CFR 1926.1153, since Table 1 control requirements are task-specific and differ from those for other grinding or cutting tasks
2. Equip each grinder with a commercially available shroud fitted to the specific grinder and wheel size, paired with a vacuum dust collection system (VDCS) rated for at least 25 cubic feet per minute of airflow per inch of wheel diameter (e.g., roughly 125 cfm minimum for a 5-inch wheel)
3. Use a vacuum with a cyclonic pre-separator or filter-cleaning mechanism and a filter rated at 99% or greater collection efficiency for respirable-sized particles, and maintain hose, filter, and shroud per the manufacturer's instructions
4. Provide respiratory protection at all times work is performed with the grinder: a minimum Assigned Protection Factor (APF) of 10 for tasks of 4 hours or less per shift, and a minimum APF of 25 for tasks exceeding 4 hours per shift
5. Establish a written respirator program under 29 CFR 1910.134 whenever respirators are required for this task, including fit testing and medical evaluation as applicable
6. For indoor or enclosed-area work, add supplemental mechanical ventilation (exhaust fans, ducts) since a VDCS alone may not reliably control exposure in confined spaces, and avoid using compressed air to clean dust from surfaces or clothing