Revised February 2022
Information and Resources on Dust
Power tools are used on materials such as wood, concrete and metal that can produce dust. Cutting outside, personal protective equipment (PPE), dust extraction systems, dust suppression systems and vacuums can be used, as appropriate, to reduce exposure to or inhalation of dust. For recommendations on minimizing exposure to dust, always consult the operator's manual that accompanies your power tool.
The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration ("OSHA") has issued mandatory standards as well as general safety information that address the hazards associated with both combustible and respirable dust.
There are several mandatory OSHA standards that include provisions that address certain aspects of combustible dust hazards. More information on these mandatory standards can be found at:
https://www.osha.gov/combustible-dust/standards
General safety and health information from OSHA on combustible dust can be found at:
https://www.osha.gov/combustible-dust
https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/shib073105.pdf
Guidance for selecting proper personal protective equipment (PPE) in dusty workplace environments can be found at:
https://www.osha.gov/personal-protective-equipment
https://www.osha.gov/respiratory-protection
https://www.osha.gov/eye-face-protection/hazards-solutions
https://www.osha.gov/wood-dust/solutions
Safety and health information on wood dust can be found at:
https://www.osha.gov/wood-dust
Information and Resources on Dust
Requirements for performing renovation or repair projects that may disturb lead-based paint can be found at:https://www.epa.gov/lead/lead-renovation-repair-and-painting-program
Guidelines for reducing the hazards of asbestos can be found at:
https://www.osha.gov/asbestos
State-run OSHA programs may have more stringent requirements than noted above. Please refer to your state site for further information.