NEWSLETTERS

Crystalline silica, a natural substance found in various construction materials, poses significant health risks due to its respirability. To mitigate these risks, OSHA has implemented regulations that lower the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for respirable crystalline silica to 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, averaged over an 8-hour workday. Employers are required to adopt engineering controls, provide respirators, restrict access to high exposure areas, create an exposure control plan, offer medical exams to at-risk workers, and conduct training on silica hazards and exposure prevention. These standards, effective June 23, 2016, aim to protect workers from silicosis, a deadly lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust. Protective measures include using N95 NIOSH-certified respirators or type CE abrasive-blast supplied-air respirators. Michael Mangum of the National Asphalt Pavement Association underscores the importance of safeguarding workers to ensure company well-being.