Safety, Standards & Maintenance
PPE, silicosis prevention, ANSI A108, TCNA Handbook, warranties, documentation, and tile maintenance.
- Identify PPE requirements and silicosis prevention measures
- Reference ANSI A108 and TCNA Handbook standards
- Describe tile maintenance, repair, and documentation practices
Lesson 1
PPE & Silicosis Prevention
Personal Protective Equipment
Tile setting involves exposure to silica dust, sharp edges, heavy materials, and chemical adhesives. Proper PPE is mandatory.
Always Required
Safety glasses - cutting, grinding, mixing
Knee pads - all floor work
Gloves - handling thinset, grout, adhesives
Steel-toed boots - heavy tiles and tools
Task-Specific PPE
Respirator (N95/P100) - cutting, grinding, mixing
Hearing protection - wet saw, grinder use
Face shield - angle grinder work
Chemical gloves - epoxy, acid cleaners
Silicosis Prevention
Silicosis is a permanent, incurable lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust. Tile, grout, thinset, and natural stone all contain silica. Cutting and grinding produce dangerous airborne particles.
Silicosis Is Irreversible
There is no cure for silicosis. Prevention is the only protection. Always use wet cutting methods and wear a NIOSH-rated respirator when any dust-producing activity cannot be controlled by water suppression alone.
Dust Control Methods
- Wet cutting - always use water with saws and grinders when possible
- Dust extraction - vacuum shrouds on grinders for dry cutting
- Ventilation - adequate airflow in enclosed spaces
- Respiratory protection - N95 minimum, P100 preferred for extended exposure
- Housekeeping - never dry sweep silica dust; use vacuum or wet methods
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by silica dust from cutting tile and stone. Prevention requires wet cutting, dust extraction, and NIOSH-rated respirators. Never dry sweep silica dust - always use vacuum or wet cleanup methods.