Studio set up for plaster silica

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Rachel K
Posts: 6
Joined: Sun Dec 29, 2013 8:01 pm

Studio set up for plaster silica

Post by Rachel K »

Do you use a separate room for mixing plaster silica? I'm concerned about the plume of dust created when it is scooped and mixed? What are your solutions? What is acceptable ventilation? Yes I always wear my respirator! I am just worried about being in my studio working after mixing and cleanup has taken place.
Thank you
Greg Rawls
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Location: Charleston, SC
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Re: Studio set up for plaster silica

Post by Greg Rawls »

Rachel K wrote:Do you use a separate room for mixing plaster silica? I'm concerned about the plume of dust created when it is scooped and mixed? What are your solutions? What is acceptable ventilation? Yes I always wear my respirator! I am just worried about being in my studio working after mixing and cleanup has taken place.
Thank you
I would do the mixing outside so there is not an issue. Make sure it is not windy and still wear a P95 respirator that fits well.
Greg
Bert Weiss
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Re: Studio set up for plaster silica

Post by Bert Weiss »

The other big issue is keeping plaster out of your drain system. You don't want it in your pipes.
Bert

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Rachel K
Posts: 6
Joined: Sun Dec 29, 2013 8:01 pm

Re: Studio set up for plaster silica

Post by Rachel K »

Thank you for your posts. I use a Gelco sediment trap and it is wonderful.
Let me elaborate on my studio situation. I work in a converted car dealership. My section has 10 artists in separate rooms with 12 foot walls. The ceilings are 25 ft and we do not have windows. I am considering putting in an exhaust fan with a hood or another possibility is a down draft table. Water is not available in many places in the building but my studio has a sink. I could go out into the drive way but it makes clean up difficult ( no water) and I would be subjecting other artists to the silica. How dangerous is it to work where the dust has settled. Is it a heavy a particle is it? Will it become airborne every time I open my door?
I clean all my surfaces when I am done but it seams like there is always a residue.
Thanks again for your input
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