Is Sandblasting environmentally safe?

Historically, the material used for sandblasting was sand that had been sieved to a uniform size. The silica dust, the “after product” produced from this process, caused silicosis after sustained inhalation of this dust. This has caused the sandblasting process to be regulated. Sandblasting is now performed in a controlled environment using ventilation, protective clothing and a breathing air supply. Sandblasting equipment typically consists of a chamber in which sand and air are mixed. The mixture travels through a hand-held nozzle to direct the particles toward the surface or work piece.  more