iQ Power Tools, manufacturer of premium power tools with integrated dust collection technology, recently announced their team is partnering with the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) and the American Lung Association (ALA) to present a free, live webinar on Tuesday, November 17th at 12 p.m. PST.

In the past two years, Australia had its first reported fatality from silicosis. In response, the Australian government has been advocating for change and protection for fabricators. Silicosis is a form of occupational, non-reversible lung disease caused by inhalation of silica dust over a long period of time. Silica is a highly common, crystal-like mineral found in sand, rock, and quartz. It can have deadly consequences for people who work with stone, tile, concrete, glass, or other forms of rock.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established a revised National Emphasis Program (NEP) to identify and reduce or eliminate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) in general industry, maritime, and construction.

The rule establishes two standards, where only one existed previously. OSHA’s Silica Rule will go into effect on June 23, 2016.