Today, as part of its commitment to improving the jobsite work environment, DEWALT announces the launch of a new system of tools designed to reduce workers’ exposure to dust and its harmful effects. The system includes three hammer shrouds, two grinder shrouds and a vacuum connector system that will combat dust inhalation associated with concrete cutting, chipping and drilling applications. See all 19 photos here.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, silica exposure remains a serious threat to nearly 2 million U.S. workers. Contractors who breathe in crystalline silica dust are susceptible to silicosis, an incurable respiratory disease that can be disabling or even fatal in severe cases.
“We recognize that we have a role in helping to make jobsites as safe and productive as possible,” said Jeff Beck, product manager, DEWALT. “Dust and crystalline silica exposure is a serious issue facing many contractors today. Our new dust collection system, along with our current dust extraction products, will help to protect users and allow them to feel confident in the tools they require to earn a living.”
Hammer Shrouds
DEWALT has created a new line of hammer shrouds that help reduce airborne dust created by hammer drilling, chipping and demolition of concrete.
The Hole Drilling and Cleaning Hammer Shroud (DWH050K) offers two interchangeable drilling heads, one for holes up to 1-1/2 inches and one for holes up to 2 inches to extract the dust created from drilling. The product is equipped with a tough rubber seal that adheres to most masonry surfaces when activated by a vacuum suction. The DWH050K also includes 5/16-inch and 9/16-inch hole cleaning tubes used to extract the dust from holes prior to applying epoxy for chemical anchoring. This kit is compatible with all DEWALT hammers and hammerdrills.
The Demolition Hammer Shroud (DWH052K) is used with DEWALT demolition hammers and pavement breakers to help extract particles and dust created in heavy demolition applications. The shroud is compatible with the D25980 and D25960 hammers and can be used with pointed and flat chisels up to 1-1/4 inches.
The Chipping Hammer Shroud (DWH053K) is compatible with all DEWALT SDS MAX hammers and the D25553K, D25651K, D25831K spline drive hammers. It is used to collect dust particles created in chipping applications and includes three different sized end nozzles to allow the user to match the chisel length to the nozzle length, providing the maximum amount of dust extraction.
The hammer dust shrouds are currently available through independent distributors. The products are expected to retail for $99.00 (DWH050K), $89.00 (DWH052K) and $109.00 (DWH053K).
Grinder Shrouds
Concrete and masonry removal, cutting and grinding are some of the heaviest dust creating applications for users. To address this concern, DEWALT has introduced a surfacing shroud and a cutting/tuck pointing shroud.
The 5-inch Surfacing Shroud (DWE46150) is ideal for contractors specializing in remodeling, restoration, painting, flooring, and concrete forming and finishing. The shroud has a tool-free shroud adjustment and wheel removal when using the backing flange, as well as a rotating edge door allowing for flush edge grinding. The 5-inch Surfacing Shroud will be sold independently (DWE46150) or as a kit containing the shroud, a small angle grinder, 5-inch diamond turbo cup wheel and universal vacuum hose connector (DWE46151).
The 6-inch Cutting/Tuck Pointing Shroud (DWE46100) is ideal for restoration contractors, brick masons, water proofers, tuck pointers and general contractors. The product features a tool-free tool clamp allowing for adjustments without a wrench or screwdriver, as well as a 1.7-inch depth of cut for a wide range of uses. The DWE46100 uses up to a 6-inch blade and has a cornering feature, which captures a high volume of dust particles while still performing difficult inside corner cuts. The 6-inch Cutting/Tuck Pointing Shroud will be sold independently (DWE46100) or as a kit containing the shroud, a high performance grinder, diamond wheel and universal vacuum connector (DWE46101).
All products will be available in July 2012. Expected retail values are as follows: $69.00 (DWE46150), $199.00 (DWE46151), $129.00 (DWE46100) and $249.00 (DWE46101).
