New Silica Rule in Effect

OSHA’s final rule on crystalline silica went into effect last week on June 23.  It gives the construction industry exactly one year to comply with the new requirements. The rule will apply to a wide range of employers who are involved with common residential construction tasks such as using masonry saws, grinders, drills, jackhammers, performing milling, and using heavy equipment for grading and excavating.

OSHA has projected that about two million construction workers who drill and cut silica-containing materials – such as concrete and stone – are exposed to breathable silica and the agency estimates that this new standard (29 CFR 1926.1153) will save more than 600 lives annually and prevent more than 900 new cases of silicosis each year.

Read more about the new rule here or listen to a free webinar that gives a comprehensive explanation of background and what to expect. Note that while the webinar is open to the public, a password – CSC4 – is required to view it.