What abrasive blasting does
A stream of air or water accelerates an abrasive to clean a surface, remove rust or coating and, where required, create an anchor profile for a coating. Steel grit, garnet, slag and glass abrasive are examples; the choice follows the substrate, required profile and specification.
Health and safety
Open abrasive blasting generates dust from both the abrasive and the removed layer. Silica sand and old coatings can present significant health hazards. The medium and substrate must be assessed, with extraction or containment, suitable PPE and controlled waste handling provided.