

Solution: Masonry Saw with Vacuum, Bosch

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	Description:	The system includes a masonry saw with an optional vacuum dust collection system -- both manufactured by Bosch. Portable masonry saws generate extremely high levels of dust creating a hazard for workers using them and for those in the vicinity of where they are used. This system is equipped with a shroud that surrounds the blade and directs dust into a vacuum with disposable HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters. Vacuum bags must be changed periodically to maintain adequate air flow. Specific Equipment Bosch 12" Abrasive Cut-off Saw Model #1364 Bosch Vacuum Model #3931 Bosch Replacement Bags for Vacuum Model #VAC013 Bosch HEPA Filters for Vacuum Model #VAC019 Shroud (with takeoff for vacuum) for 12" Saw Part No. 1-605510215-000 Equipment Weight The Bosch cut-off saw weighs approximately 23 lbs. The Bosch Vacuum Cleaner weighs 42 lbs. empty and no more than 82 lbs. full. Respirable silica levels were reduced by 96% with the use of the vacuum while cutting block. Average exposure with use of the control was 0.11 mg/m3 or approximately two times the NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limit (REL). Respirable silica levels were reduced by 91% when cutting brick with an average exposure of .08 mg/m3 or about one and one half of the NIOSH REL. Based on a scientific study conducted by the Center to Protect Workers' Rights of silica exposures associated with cutting and grinding in a controlled setting. NIOSH found similar results results in a separate study of this equipment where respirable silica exposures were reduced by 95% when cutting block. They also noted that dust levels were reduced by maintaining the saw's blade depth to the minimum necesssary to make the cut. Based on the following report: In-Depth Survey of Dust Control Tehcnology for Cutting Block and Tuckpointing Brick at the International Masonry Institute, Bordentown, NJ. Alan Echt and W. Karl Sieber, Report No. EPHB 282-13. More Detail
	Risks Addressed:	Silica dust exposure may cause silicosis or lung scarring with prolonged exposure. Silicosis is an incurable, sometimes fatal, disease. The NIOSH recommended exposure limit is 0.05 mg/m³ as a 40 hour time weighted average. Silica has also been associated with lung cancer.
	How Risks are Reduced:	A shroud and vacuum system captures dust and silica as it is generated thereby reducing dust exposure at the source before reaching the worker's breathing zone.
	Quality of Evidence (Risk Reduction):	Manufacturers, vendors, or worksites have reported a risk reduction. Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Risk Reduction):	There is evidence via several published studies that this tool reduces the incidence of exposure to dust while cutting masonry materials.
	Effects on Productivity:	Vacuum dust control systems can have either positive or negative effects on productivity. However since use of vacuums eliminates large amounts of both airborne and settled dust, they are a cleaner, more efficient means of masonry cutting than dry saws. Improved visibility can improve quality and productivity. Dust capture greatly reduces site cleanup times. Dust capture avoids exposures of other workers, members of the public, adjacent property or cars, or building occupants; which can be associated with increased liability or time consuming disputes. Improved worker comfort is a result of reduced dust which may in turn result is less fatigue for the worker and greater productivity. In some cases, particularly where saw use is intermittent, vacuum dust control may be adequate to reduce the need to wear a respirator, and the need for an employer respiratory protection program. Some additional issues that should be considered are time involved in changing vacuum bags, which will depend on the amount of cutting being done. Workers will need to adapt to working with a vacuum hose attached to the tool. And, saw and vacuum energy requirements may exceed the capacity of a single standard 20 Amp circuit when combined; requiring access to two circuits or special wiring.
	Return on Investment:	To calculate the return on investment (ROI) for your specific application, please visit our Return on Investment Calculator. While a specific ROI example has not been developed for this particular solution, the ROI Calculator provides a useful tool and guidance on how to generate your own on investment analysis.
	Availability:	You can locate Bosch dealers through the Bosch Tools website: www.boschtools.com Or order through building equipment and supply stores.
	Additional Considerations:	As is the case with any construction equipment, users should follow manufacturer safety recommendations and comply with any applicable local, state or federal recommendations.