Are You Ready for Silica Compliance?

New standards for going dustless for the general industry and maritime went into effect on June 23, 2018. Since then, have you devised the proper plan, tools, and equipment to accommodate?

As of September 2017, OSHA implemented the Final Rule to Protect Workers from Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica. Per Construction Equipment, this regulation requires contractors to monitor worksites, have a written exposure control plan, a designated competent person, and to provide workers with protection gear and training.

To refresh, silica is the second most common mineral in the earth’s crust and exists in the following: quartz, sand, concrete, stone, rock, mortar, ceramic, and brick. Respirable crystalline silica dust is created during any occupation when workers saw, cut, drill, grind, crush, and manufacture the mineral.

The goal of the rule is to help prevent workers from breathing silica dust. 

Inhalation of the dust can lead to:

• Lung cancers
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
• Lung diseases
• Chronic silicosis
• Accelerated silicosis
• Acute silicosis

There are no cures for the above illnesses, only prevention. By implementing silica exposure safety procedures, properly wearing personal protection equipment (PPE) such as dusk masks and respirators, and utilizing designated dustless solutions, your workplace will be safe and healthy.

Return to Home Page