The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) rule to curb lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in America’s workers by limiting their exposure to respirable crystalline silica takes effect September 23, 2017. This rule directly effects the construction industry.
Information published on OSHA’a website estimates this rule has the potential to save over 600 lives and prevent over 900 new cases of silicosis annually. An extimated $7.7 billion are on the line in related costs to lives lost and medical expenses related to this preventable condition.
Approximately 2 million construction workers are exposed to crystalline silica thru drilling, cutting, crushing and grinding silica-containing materials such as stone & concrete. Although many employers have had tools and processes in place to protect employees thru the use of dust control measures such as water and vacuum systems, this rule will make large strides to enforce all job site tools and processes are in place from September 23rd forward.
For complete information regarding the crystalline silica standard you can visit https://www.osha.gov/about.html
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