Silica Analysis is performed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD)following the NIOSH 7500 and OSHA ID-142 Methods. This analysis is primarily used where industrial applications or construction may cause silica to become airborne. Cement cutting and sand blasting are among the primary sources for concern.

Sampling is performed by pre-weighted 5.0 micron Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) filters. Air sample volumes for personnel monitoring are acquired using 1.5 to 2.5 liters per minute during the persons work cycle. Area monitoring is best performed at 10 lpm for a total volume of greater than 1,500 liters.

In many cases the job site requires both Nuisance Dust sampling and Silica sampling so our silica report incorporates both the Nuisance Dust concentrations as well as the Silica form and concentration at no additional charge.

A bulk sample of the suspect material, such as the cement being cut, should be submitted in order to identify the exact silica form that may be present in the air monitoring samples.