ABRASIVE BLASTING MEDIA PRECAUTIONS
The blasting process emits abrasive media under pressure that breaks apart upon impact. The resulting dust is a combination of
the media and the material being removed by the abrasive. Both the media and the material being removed may have toxic
components such as lead in paint.
1. Check the abrasive media’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for information on the health risks and preventative measure
that can be taken to minimize those risks.
2. Determine the toxicity of the material being removed and take appropriate measures.
3. Work in a well-ventilated area whenever possible or use containment methods such as cabinets or blastcleaning machines to
control the hazards from exposure.
4. Wear NIOSH approved respirators that protect both the lower face and eyes during blasting operations whenever possible.
WARNING! Sand or silica particle dust can result in the lung disease known as silicosis, when inhaled over a short period
of time. Silicosis causes shortness of breath, cough, fever and bluish skin (cyanosis). Seek immediate medical attention if these
symptoms appear.
AIR TOOL PRECAUTIONS
1. Extended exposure to air tool noise may cause hearing loss. Ear protection gear can reduce or eliminate the noise level.
2. Inspect the tool’s airline for cracks, fraying or other faults before each use. Discontinue use if the airline is damaged or hissing
is heard from the airline or connectors, while operating the tool. Replace the defective component/air line.
3. Do not allow people, mobile equipment or vehicles to pass over the unprotected air line. Position the airline away from high
traffic areas, in a reinforced conduit or place planks on both sides of the airline to create a protective trench.
4. Prevent damage to the air line by observing the following:
a. Never carry the tool by the air line.
b. Keep the air line behind the tool and out of the tool’s work path.
c. Keep the air line away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts.
d. Do not wrap the air line around the tool as sharp edges may pierce or crack the airline. Coil the airline when storing.
5. A damaged or disconnected air line under pressure may whip around and inflict personal injury or damage the work area.
Secure the compressor’s air line to a fixed or permanent structure with clamps or cable ties.
6. Install an in-line shutoff valve or regulator to allow immediate control over the air supply in an emergency, even if a hose is
ruptured.
VIBRATION PRECAUTIONS
This tool vibrates during use. Repeated or long-term exposure to vibration may cause temporary or permanent physical injury,
particularly to the hands, arms and shoulders.
1. Anyone using vibrating tools regularly or for an extended period should first be examined by a doctor and then have regular
medical check-ups to ensure medical problems are not being caused by or worsened from tool use. Pregnant women or people
who have impaired blood circulation to the hands, past hand injuries, nervous system disorders, diabetes or Raynaud’s Disease
should not use this tool. If you feel any medical symptoms related to vibrations (such as tingling, numbness, and white or blue
fingers), seek medical attention as soon as possible.
2. Do not smoke during use. Nicotine reduces the blood flow to the hands and fingers, increasing the risk of vibration-related
injury.
3. Wear suitable gloves to reduce the vibration effects on the user.
4. Use tools with the lowest amount of vibration when there is a choice between different processes.
5. Do not use for extended periods. Take frequent breaks when using this tool.
6. Let the tool do the work. Grip the tool as lightly as possible (while still keeping safe control of it).
7. To reduce vibrations, maintain the tool as explained in this manual. If abnormal vibrations occur, stop using this tool
immediately.
