TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2019
The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently seeking industry feedback on its respirable crystalline silica standard as it applies to construction. The comment period will be open until Oct. 15.
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The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is currently seeking industry feedback on its respirable crystalline silica standard as it applies to construction. The comment period will be open until Oct. 15. |
During the comment period, OSHA is specifically seeking feedback on “the effectiveness of engineering and work practice control methods not currently included for the tasks and equipment,” which are included in Table 1 of the standard, according to OSHA.
Silica Standard Feedback
OSHA is also requesting information on other construction tasks, including equipment, that generate silica, which may be added to Table 1. Information about relevant engineering and work practice control methods would also be included.
Table 1 of the silica standard for construction pertains to appropriate control measures for pieces of equipment connected to silica exposure. Equipment currently covered under this table includes: stationary masonry saws, handheld power saws, walk-behind saws and drivable saws, among others.
Additionally, OSHA is also seeking to revise paragraph (a)(3) of the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for General Industry, a move that would broaden the compliance opportunities for the general industry and maritime employers, using the silica standard as an alternative for the general industry standard. Commentary is being accepted until Nov. 13.
Tagged categories: Abrasive blasting; Government; Health & Safety; OSHA; Silica; Silica rule
