Four Containment Methods You Can Use for Sandblasting
Posted on: 15 June 2023
Sandblasting is an efficient and safe method of removing paint or rust from a surface. Although it is not dangerous in itself, it can produce a lot of dust and other debris that could be harmful if inhaled. Because of this, it is important to keep the process contained and away from unprotected members of the public. Here are some ways of doing this.
Barriers
For outdoor sandblasting in a public place, consider putting up safety barriers. These are effectively just portable pieces of fencing with a canvas barrier to stop any particles from flying through. They have the advantage that they are easy to transport and move into position. They can also be branded and used as a way of advertising your business.
Silt fence
This is another very effective barrier for outdoor sandblasting. It is made from a sediment containment barrier, which is a kind of builders' black fabric that comes complete with stakes. A strong fence can then quickly be built up to protect surrounding areas. This is particularly useful when sandblasting the outside of a house before repainting, as otherwise the paint could be thrown into the garden or yard.
Blast shield
This is particularly useful when you are sandblasting quickly over a large area — for example, removing paint from a curb or road. Instead of setting up a barrier to work behind, a colleague simply walks beside you holding up the shield. This can be anything from a large piece of wood to a properly manufactured shield made for the purpose. This avoids the need to set up and dismantle multiple barriers to contain the blasting.
Air scrubber
An air scrubber is a very useful way of clearing the air when sandblasting is taking place indoors. Plastic sheeting can be hung up to provide a small area in which the blasting is happening, and the air scrubber can then be set in a hole in the plastic to vacuum unwanted particles in the air. This will remove most of the debris from the blasting and will prevent anything from settling on surfaces that could otherwise be difficult to clean.
Remember at all times that sandblasting can be a messy business and that you will have to clean up after it. By containing the blasting when it is happening, you will keep this cleaning to a minimum, and protect the health of workers and the public.
Reach out to a local contractor if you need help with sandblasting.
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