Concrete Saw Operation Audit

Inspection template for auditing concrete saw operations, with emphasis on silica exposure controls, water suppression, vacuum systems, and respirator use.

Pre-Task Planning and Work Area Setup

• Silica hazard assessment completed for the task and material
  Confirm the competent person or supervisor identified the presence of silica-containing material and selected exposure controls before work started.
• Work area isolated from unauthorized personnel
  Check that barricades, signage, or other controls keep bystanders out of the cutting zone and downwind dust path.
• Housekeeping plan in place for slurry and dust cleanup
  Verify the crew has a method to collect slurry, prevent dry sweeping, and remove settled dust using approved methods.
• Operator trained on saw-specific silica controls
  Confirm the operator understands wet cutting, vacuum attachment use, respirator requirements, and cleanup procedures for the saw being used.
• Cutting method selected matches the material and control plan
  Verify the planned method is wet cutting, vacuum-assisted dry cutting, or another approved control method for the task.

Water Suppression and Wet Cutting Controls

• Water supply connected and available at the saw
  Confirm the saw has an active water source, adequate pressure/flow, and no visible leaks preventing effective suppression.
• Water is delivered to the blade at the point of contact
  Verify water reaches the blade and cut line continuously during operation, not merely the saw body or surrounding area.
• Water suppression controls are functioning without interruption
  Check for clogs, damaged hoses, blocked nozzles, or intermittent flow that would allow visible dust release.
• Visible dust generation minimized during cutting
  Observe the operation and confirm dust is not escaping the control zone in a visible plume.
• Slurry managed to prevent slip and secondary exposure hazards
  Verify slurry is contained, collected, or directed to an approved disposal method and does not create slip hazards or dried residue.

Vacuum Dust Collection and Equipment Condition

• Dust shroud or guard properly fitted to the saw
  Confirm the shroud/guard is installed correctly and positioned to capture dust at the source.
• Vacuum system connected and operating during dry cutting
  Verify the vacuum is attached, powered, and running whenever dry cutting is performed.
• Vacuum filtration appropriate for respirable dust control
  Confirm the vacuum and filter setup is suitable for fine dust capture and not bypassing dust back into the work area.
• Hoses, seals, and fittings are intact and secure
  Inspect for cracks, loose connections, missing clamps, or leaks that reduce capture efficiency.
• Saw blade and power equipment are in safe operating condition
  Check blade condition, guards, handles, cords or fuel system, and general mechanical condition before use.

Respiratory Protection and PPE

• Respirator required by exposure conditions is available and worn
  Confirm the operator is wearing the required respirator when engineering controls alone do not fully control exposure or when the task requires it.
• Respirator type matches the hazard and task
  Verify the respirator type is appropriate for respirable crystalline silica exposure and the site respiratory protection program.
• Respirator fit and seal appear correct
  Check for visible seal issues, facial hair interference, damaged straps, or improper donning.
• Other required PPE worn correctly
  Verify eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and protective clothing are used as required for the task.
• Respirator inspection and change-out status current
  Confirm cartridges, filters, and equipment are within service life and not visibly damaged or saturated.

Exposure Monitoring, Supervision, and Closeout

• Competent person or supervisor present or assigned
  Verify a competent person is overseeing silica controls and can stop work if controls fail.
• Exposure monitoring or task classification documented
  Confirm the task is covered by exposure data, task table, or monitoring records as required by the site silica program.
• Corrective actions documented for any deficiencies
  Record all deficiencies, immediate controls, responsible person, and due date for closure.
• Work area left clean and safe at closeout
  Verify slurry, dust, waste, and equipment are secured and the area is safe for other trades or the public.