B.5.2.5 Sand Blasting

General. All outside abrasive blasting (commonly referred to as sandblasting) operations on Fort Carson require an El Paso County permit.  It may also require a state permit if the uncontrolled emissions are over two tons per year, which must be documented.  The material to be sandblasted must be tested for asbestos and lead prior to submitting the permit application.  Therefore, advance coordination with the DECAM is necessary.  Link to the asbestos/LPB section.

Contractors/project proponents should be aware of the installation-wide dust control plan, which is enforceable by the state.  Link to SEMS webpage for dust plan and GC memo.

Permit Application. For El Paso County, a permit can be obtained on either a project-by-project basis or annually (through December 31).  It is recommended that an annual permit ($150) be obtained if the same contractor is to perform multiple sandblasting projects throughout the year on Fort Carson, as it is more cost-effective.  However, if it is a one-time project by one contractor, then a $65 project permit is recommended.  If multiple contractors are going to perform separate sandblasting projects, then each contractor is required to obtain their own sandblasting permit.

Coordination with the DECAM Air Program is necessary to determine if the project is located within the Colorado Springs carbon monoxide maintenance area.  If so then the contract must provide information so the DECAM can perform a General Conformity Review prior to project initiation.  Link to General Conformity section.

Permit Requirements. The contractor must implement the control measures and operating procedures stated in the application and reiterated on the permit.  No person shall operate a sandblasting activity that will allow or create emissions constituting or causing a nuisance to exist.  Applicable dust suppression shall be used.

Project Completion. Permits are issued for the period of time specified in the application.  If the permit is allowed to expire or the information supplied on the application changes, the permitting authority may require a new permit and an additional fee.  Once the project is complete, the  contractor must notify the DECAM NEPA or Air Program for project closure.

B.5.2 Air Quality Management Program