Sanding Dust and Extraction Awareness Toolbox Talk

This toolbox talk is designed for panel and paint technicians working in motor trade settings such as vehicle workshops, bodyshops and tyre bays.

This document is fully editable and shareable for easy customization across sites.

Sanding creates fine dust that can contain crystalline silica, metal particles and organic fragments. Inhalation of these particles can lead to occupational asthma, silicosis and chronic bronchitis, while skin contact may cause dermatitis. Controlling exposure is essential for the health of staff and for maintaining a clean workshop.

The talk outlines practical steps: using extraction units correctly, fitting tool attachments, wearing appropriate respiratory protective equipment and protective clothing, ensuring good ventilation, cleaning work areas with HEPA‑filtered vacuums, inspecting and replacing filters, training new staff, reporting extraction failures and carrying out regular dust monitoring.

Regular air‑monitoring and accurate logging of extraction performance provide objective evidence of compliance and help identify trends that may require additional controls.

Adhering to these guidelines also helps reduce insurance costs and improves overall productivity.

• Use this toolbox talk for: daily pre‑shift briefings, new‑staff induction and refresher training on dust control.
• It includes: clear do and don’t lists, step‑by‑step guidance on equipment checks, PPE use and housekeeping procedures.
• Benefits: reduces respiratory illness, ensures legal compliance and helps keep the workshop tidy and safe.

Compliant with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 and BS EN 12779:2004+A1:2009 for dust extraction.