OSHA Announces Proposed Rule to Curb Workers’ Exposure to Crystalline Silica

September 6, 2013- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recently announced a proposed rule that would lower worker exposure to crystalline silica, which kills hundreds of workers and sickens thousands more each year. Exposure to airborne silica dust is linked to lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease. Exposure often occurs in jobs involving the cutting, sawing, drilling and crushing of concrete, brick, and other stone products, and in operations using sand products, such as glass manufacturing.

“Exposure to silica can be deadly, and limiting that exposure is essential,” said Dr. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for occupational safety and health. "Every year, exposed workers not only lose their ability to work, but also to breathe. This proposal is expected to prevent thousands of deaths from silicosis-an incurable and progressive disease-as well as lung cancer, other respiratory diseases and kidney disease. We're looking forward to public comment on the proposal."

After publication of the proposal, the public will have 90 days to submit written comments, followed by public hearings.

The proposed rule includes a new exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica and details widely used methods for controlling worker exposure, conducting medical surveillance, training workers about silica-related hazards.

"The proposed rule uses common-sense measures that will protect workers' lives and lungs -- like keeping the material wet so dust doesn't become airborne," said Michaels.

Once the full effects of the rule are realized, OSHA estimates that it would result in saving nearly 700 lives per year and prevent 1,600 new cases of silicosis annually.

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