2017 News

New Rule Limits Exposure to Silica Dust

New Rule Limits Exposure to Silica Dust
11.16.2017

Last June, OSHA’s new rule regarding construction workers’ exposure to respirable crystalline silica went into effect and, on September 23, 2017, became fully enforceable.

“Although respirable crystalline silica doesn’t contain asbestos, it is similar in that it can cause some of the same lung diseases, such as lung cancer, silicosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as kidney disease,” says Tracy Haus, Safety Director for Baker Group. “This new rule is expected to annually prevent more than 900 new cases of silicosis and hundreds of deaths.”

If your trade involves drilling, cutting, crushing or grinding concrete, stone or other silica-containing materials, you will need to modify workplace practices to reduce the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for respirable crystalline silica to 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, averaged over an 8-hour shift. This involves:

  • Using engineering controls (such as water or ventilation) to limit worker exposure to the PEL
  • Providing respirators when engineering controls cannot adequately limit exposure
  • Limiting worker access to high exposure areas
  • Developing a written exposure control plan
  • Offering medical exams to highly exposed workers
  • Training workers on silica risks and how to limit exposures
  • Providing workers information about their lung health

OSHA has provided detailed safety measures for various construction equipment/tasks that involve materials containing crystalline silica. Please refer to OSHA’s Specified Exposure Control Methods” regulation and chart.

Questions?
Baker Group’s Safety Team is ready to help clients reduce workers’ exposure to silica dust and comply with the regulation. If you desire assistance, please contact us at 515-262-4000.

About Baker Group

Founded in 1963 and with 650 employees across Iowa, Baker Group is the Midwest’s premier full-service specialty contractor providing mechanical, sheet metal, electrical, building automation, process automation, security systems, fire alarm systems, parking/revenue controls and 24/7/365 service. For more information, call 855.262.4000 or visit www.thebakergroup.com.

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