Assessment of Beryllium Exposure in Abrasive Blasting with Slag Abrasives

Occupational exposure to beryllium during abrasive blasting with slag abrasives may pose a risk of chronic beryllium disease (CBD) and cancer, though the extent of this risk remains debated due to the chemical form of beryllium in slag. This preliminary study quantified beryllium in air, on skin, on surfaces, and in bulk media during abrasive blasting with copper and coal slag. Five personal breathing zone air samples, 24 skin wipes (neck, arms, hands), four surface wipes, and four bulk samples were collected from abrasive blasters, laborers, and supervisors at two worksites. Samples were analyzed using EPA Method 7010 (skin, air, surfaces) and NIOSH Method 7303 (bulk). Beryllium was detected on skin despite personal protective equipment (PPE), with concentrations up to 0.456 μg/wipe (arms, abrasive blaster, coal slag). Breathing zone levels were below the OSHA PEL of 0.2 μg/m³ (<0.0725 - <0.107 μg/m³). Surface levels were low (<0.050 - 0.19 μg/ft²), and bulk slag contained 0.42 - 0.73 ppm beryllium, confirming trace amounts. Supervisors showed minimal skin exposure (0.0698 - 0.0918 μg/wipe). These findings indicate dermal exposure occurs despite PPE, posing potential health risks, while airborne levels appear controlled. This range-finding study highlights the need for expanded sampling to fully characterize exposure risks and inform risk management strategies for construction workers using slag abrasives containing trace beryllium.