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The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is making significant strides to enhance workplace safety, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica. This blog explores OSHA’s dual initiatives: the comprehensive enforcement effort in the engineered stone fabrication and installation sectors and the full implementation of the new Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard.

OSHA’s Initiative for Engineered Stone Sectors:

OSHA has intensified its focus on engineered stone fabrication and installation, building on its national emphasis program for respirable crystalline silica. The goal is to ensure employers adhere to safety standards and provide necessary protections to workers. This initiative outlines procedures for prioritized federal inspections in industries exposed to elevated levels of silica dust.

Silica dust exposure in the manufacturing, finishing, and installation of natural and engineered stone poses severe health risks. Workers inhaling crystalline silica particles face the potential of silicosis, a debilitating lung disease that may lead to fatality. Industries subject to prioritized inspections include cut stone and stone product manufacturing, as well as related construction material wholesalers.

OSHA’s New Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard:

In a parallel effort, OSHA is fully enforcing the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard, a crucial step in protecting workers across diverse industries. This standard significantly reduces the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for crystalline silica, aiming to curb the associated health hazards.

Key Provisions of the Standard:

• Lower PEL: The standard establishes a lower PEL to protect workers from adverse health effects associated with prolonged exposure.
• Engineering Controls: Employers must implement controls like dust collection systems to minimize silica dust generation during work activities.
• Respiratory Protection: When engineering controls are insufficient, employers must provide respiratory protection, ensuring worker safety.
• Written Exposure Control Plan (ECP): Employers must develop a comprehensive ECP outlining tasks involving exposure, engineering controls, respiratory protection, housekeeping practices, and medical surveillance.
• Training and Education: Proper training on silica exposure hazards, control measures, and personal protective equipment is mandatory.

Implications and Compliance Measures:

The full enforcement of the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard signals a transformative shift in occupational health and safety practices. Industries with potential silica exposure, including construction and manufacturing, must promptly implement measures to comply. Employers should conduct risk assessments, implement engineering controls, provide respiratory protection, develop written exposure control plans, and educate workers.

Conclusion:

OSHA’s dual initiatives underscore a commitment to prioritize worker safety and health. The comprehensive enforcement in engineered stone sectors and the implementation of the new silica standard represent significant steps toward fostering a culture of occupational safety and well-being. As industries adapt to these standards, they contribute to creating safer and healthier work environments for their workforce. For further information on crystalline silica, employers and stakeholders can access valuable resources on OSHA’s website.