OSHA document addresses silica control
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published Controlling Silica Exposures in Construction, a guidance document that addresses controlling worker exposure to dust that contains crystalline silica, which is known to cause the lung disease silicosis.
The publication—intended to help employers provide a safe and healthy workplace—includes methods for controlling silica, such as wet cutting during construction operations and vacuum dust collection systems.
"Workers in the construction trades not only suffer serious injuries and illnesses resulting from unsafe equipment but also from inhaling harmful dusts," says OSHA's acting Assistant Secretary of Labor Jordan Barab. "Providing guidance for reducing potentially fatal hazards associated with occupational exposure to silica dust is one of this agency's priorities."
Employers should conduct periodic monitoring of silica exposure by testing air samples at construction sites to determine whether the level of silica in the air exceeds the permissible exposure limit (PEL) outlined in the construction PEL standard. OSHA has developed standards for silica to ensure work practice controls are effective.
For more information about Controlling Silica Exposures in Construction, click here. For more information about crystalline silica, visit www.osha.gov.
9/23/2009
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