What can you use to cut roof tiles?
What is silica dust?
When tile or concrete is being cut it releases crystalline silica (silica dust). According to OSHA, silica dust consists of tiny, respirable crystalline silica particles commonly found in materials like sand, stone, concrete, and mortar. These fine particles are released into the air when such materials are cut, ground, or drilled.
The compound is not hazardous until it is exposed in the air, where inhaling this airborne crystalline silica can put workers at risk of developing silicosis, an incurable lung disease caused by an accumulation of silica dust in the lungs.
What does silica dust do to your body?
OSHA states that inhaling respirable silica dust can lead to severe health issues, including silicosis, a lung disease that causes scarring and reduced lung function, as well as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and kidney disease. These conditions are often irreversible and can result in significant disability or death.
What are the symptoms of silica exposure?
Symptoms of silica exposure, as outlined by OSHA, include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and a persistent cough. In severe cases, exposure can lead to respiratory failure, fever, and weight loss, with symptoms either developing gradually over years or appearing quickly with high exposure levels.
How do professionals cut tiles?
The Hytile Cutter provides is that it cuts tile using a striking method with virtually no production of silica dust. Without the production of this potentially deadly mineral, the need for water, respirator or vacuum applications is eliminated, resulting in healthy and happy workers.
In addition to eliminating life-threatening silica exposure, the Hytile Cutter does not require electricity to operate (no extension cord to trip over). It is designed to work solely through manual power (no hearing protection needed so you can hear what’s going on around you), which means there is no reliance on batteries, electrical outlets or generators.
Plus, the Hytile Cutter requires much less maintenance than a circular saw. Concrete and clay tiles can quickly dull expensive diamond blades, requiring frequent replacement and increasing the cost of material. Not only does the use of a saw produce silica dust, but it increases the risk of dangerous injuries because of the running blade. The Hytile Cutter uses no running blades, which makes for a much safer workplace.
Conventional methods of cutting roof tile can be dangerous and costly. Along with reducing trip, slip and fall risks, the Hytile Cutter is quieter than a running saw, or a blower to clear the decking of silica dust. This makes it more practical to communicate on the roof with fellow workers, eliminating the need for hearing protection.
Something less thought about, but just as important, the Hytile Cutter is a more environmentally friendly device for completing roof work. With there being no carbon emissions during use, or tools or parts needing frequent replacement like a saw blade, the Hytile Cutter defines itself as a minimalist tool that aims to minimize risks and emissions and maximize profits and production. With the roofing industry projected to grow in the state of Florida, All Points Tile and Slate believes it is important they do their part in embracing a more sustainable means of building towards the future!
The information on our blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice of a professional roofer. For all roofing questions and needs, please contact our experts at 407-366-2521.
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