There are two standards for OSHA’s Silica Rule: the Construction Standard, which effects all companies with field or jobsite silica-generating activities, and the General Industry and Maritime Standard, which effects companies with silica-producing activities in a production or shop environment. Per both standards, Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) is 50 µg/m³ and Action Level is 25 µg/m³.

MIA+BSI is working on a customized Exposure Control Plan (ECP) for stone shops, which will be made available in the coming months. In the meantime, here are six suggestions to ensure that you will be in compliance with this ruling:

1) Have air sampling and analysis done now for various employees and duties throughout your facility. This will give you an idea on how/where you should focus efforts on additional controls. Air sampling may be available through your local OSHA office, your WC Insurance provider, or you may need to hire a private Industrial Hygiene testing firm.

2) Implement controls to try and reduce worker exposure to below the PEL (good) or below the Action Level (best).

3) Implement new housekeeping methods to reduce airborne silica.

4) Establish and implement a written Exposure Control Plan (ECP).

5) Train workers and keep records of training and any medical exams.

6) Prepare to offer medical exams to existing employees who are expected to be exposed above action level for 30+ days per year.

MIA+BSI Accreditation & Technical Manager Mark Meriaux notes that shop owners who have implemented strict new housekeeping rules and controls have been able to achieve levels that are below the new Action Level. These actions, combined with an ECP, a training program, and a good recordkeeping program for both, will help ensure your company’s compliance and the safety of your workers.

Please visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/silica  for additional resources detailing this important issue.