The rule aims to curb lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease by limiting workers exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
More than ever, we are hearing about the concerns regarding silica dust in the shop, and how OSHA is working relentlessly to enforce standards to regulate the amount produced during the fabrication process.
OSHA is currently in the process of analyzing the substantial comments it received on its proposed silica rule, which the agency has scheduled to take place through at least the middle of this year.
Last year, OSHA released an official proposal to cut the silica exposure limit formula in half, to 50 micrograms of respirable crystalline silica per cubic meter of air over an eight-hour workday.
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is extending the public comment period for an additional 47 days on the notice of proposed rulemaking on occupational exposure to crystalline silica.
On page 46 of this issue, you will find an article that — in just over 2,000 words — articulates exactly why OSHA is misguided in how it regulates the stone industry.
In a statement on August 23, 2013, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued notice that they intend to reduce the current silica dust exposure rate by 50%.
On August 23, 2013, OSHA released its proposed silica rule -- cutting the exposure limit formula in half -- and a 90-day comment period has been established.
