Start with the exact tool and task: OSHA Table 1 may call for a shroud, compatible collector, manufacturer-recommended airflow and a filter-cleaning mechanism; for cleaning drilled holes, it specifies a HEPA-filtered vacuum. OSHA defines a HEPA filter at 99.97% efficiency for 0.3-micrometer particles, while Table 1 sets other task-specific requirements. Choose by the whole tool, attachment, hose, extractor, filter and bag setup, not by one label alone.
Choose a dust extractor around the work that creates the dust. For silica-producing concrete and masonry tasks, the tool, shroud or cowling, hose, collector, filter and cleanup method must work together under the applicable control plan.
Match extraction to the task
OSHA’s construction silica standard gives task-specific controls in Table 1. A collector with a HEPA label is not a complete answer if the table also calls for a particular shroud, airflow, filter efficiency, filter-cleaning method or water delivery.
| Task example | Table 1 equipment detail to check |
|---|---|
| Handheld or stand-mounted drill | Compatible shroud or cowling; collector airflow at least as high as the tool maker recommends; filter at least 99% efficient; filter-cleaning mechanism; HEPA-filtered vacuum for cleaning holes |
| Grinder used for mortar removal | Shroud and collector; at least 25 CFM per inch of wheel diameter; filter at least 99% efficient; cyclonic pre-separator or filter-cleaning mechanism |
| Walk-behind saw cutting concrete | Integrated water delivery that continuously feeds the blade; Table 1 specifies this wet method for the listed task |
These are examples from the rule, not a substitute for checking the complete row for the exact tool, location and duration. For tasks not listed in Table 1, or when its controls are not fully implemented, OSHA’s standard describes an alternative exposure-control method.
Compare the connected system
| Component | What to compare |
|---|---|
| Tool and attachment | Confirm the shroud or cowling fits the exact tool and keeps dust capture near the cutting, drilling or grinding point. |
| Airflow | Check the tool maker’s recommended airflow with the specified hose and attachment. For tasks that set a minimum, verify that the extractor meets it in that setup. |
| Filter and cleaning | Match filter efficiency and cleaning method to the applicable task. Automatic cleaning can maintain collection performance, but does not change the required shroud or work practice. |
| Bag and containment | Use bags and filters approved for the extractor and dust class; check how the maker instructs the operator to remove and seal collected material. |
| Power and handling | Compare the unit’s power supply, cord or battery, hose length, container size, weight and transport needs with the work area. |
Bosch describes a dust solution as a matched tool, attachment, extractor, filter, bag and hose system. Hilti’s task guide likewise separates drilling, grinding, saw cutting and cleanup because the capture method changes with the task. Compare the specific tool’s manual and compatible accessories before sizing by a headline CFM figure.
Understand HEPA and dust-class labels
OSHA defines a HEPA filter in its silica standard as at least 99.97% efficient in removing 0.3-micrometer particles. Table 1 uses different thresholds for some source-capture tasks: for example, its drilling entry specifies a collector filter at least 99% efficient and reserves a HEPA-filtered vacuum for hole cleanup. A HEPA filter rating does not by itself establish that the full tool setup matches the task.
Some manufacturers label the extractor, bag and filter as L, M or H dust-risk class. Bosch says those components should carry matching classes; check the product’s stated classification standard and the maker’s approved accessory list. OSHA Table 1 does not name one L/M/H class as a universal selection. Match its task requirements to the complete manufacturer-approved system.
When silica is involved, compare respirator choices and OSHA Table 1. For concrete drilling and accessory fit, see hammer drills versus SDS rotary hammers. Browse site equipment.
Sources
Common questions
Does OSHA Table 1 require a HEPA filter for every dust extractor?
No. Table 1 gives different controls by task. For example, drilling with a dust collector requires airflow at least as high as the tool maker recommends, a filter rated at least 99% efficient and filter cleaning; cleaning drill holes requires a HEPA-filtered vacuum.
How much airflow does a construction dust extractor need?
Use the power-tool maker's airflow recommendation for the exact attachment and task. OSHA's Table 1 sets a separate floor of 25 CFM per inch of wheel diameter for grinders used for mortar removal.
Is an M-class dust extractor the same as a HEPA vacuum?
They are different labels. Bosch describes L, M and H as dust-risk classes for the extractor, bag and filter; OSHA's silica table instead lists task-specific efficiency, airflow and cleanup requirements. Check the exact product's stated standard and the job's applicable controls.
Can a dust extractor replace a respirator?
Not by itself. OSHA Table 1 specifies respiratory protection for some tasks and durations, alongside the engineering controls. See the silica respirator guide for the task and fit requirements.