ST. PAUL, Minn.— As you probably know by now in March 2016, OSHA launched the Respirable Crystalline Silica in Construction Regulation (29 CFR 1926.1153). The new regulation states that employers in the construction industry are expected to continue to take steps either to come into compliance with the new permissible exposure limit or to implement specific dust controls for certain operations.
Still Need Help Achieving Compliance and Understanding All the Silica Regulation Changes?
Access this online resource to help learn more about the regulations and access resources and information related to silica. It contains key regulations and regulation updates, videos, fast facts, technical bulletins, infographics, a product selector and more—all curated by certified industrial hygienists and certified safety professionals.
This resource also outlines five key areas under the new silica regulation and provides information and resources:
- Written exposure control plan
- Competent person
- Housekeeping
- Medical surveillance
- Worker training
The primary industries affected include:
- Construction
- Mining
- Ready-mix concrete
- Cut stone and stone products
- Abrasive blasting in:
- Maritime work
- Construction
- General industry
- Refractory furnace installation and repair
- Railroads
- Hydraulic fracturing for gas and oil
- Asphalt products manufacturing
About 2.3 million workers are exposed to crystalline silica on the job each year, many without realizing it. The dangers and health risks associated with silica are more prevalent than many realize. It’s not a threat with an immediate result, such as falling from height or an injury from a tool.
The health effects from silica exposure typically develop over time often from prolonged exposure.
Need more information? Check out this 40-minute webcast, featuring construction industrial hygienist, Don Garvey. Beyond talking about why this regulation change was needed, he breaks down the technicalities of the changes and talks about some of the things it could mean for construction safety managers. Want even more information? Check out this online resource center or contact one of our industrial hygienists today.