Washington — OSHA has released new compliance assistance resources for limiting worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
Among the resources:
- A customizable slide presentation for training construction workers.
- A five-minute video on protecting employees from silica dust.
- A series of short videos on dust control methods for “six common construction tasks.”
- A website that answers frequently asked questions about the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction, which went into effect Oct. 23.
OSHA’s silica standard for general industry and maritime went into effect June 23.
Crystalline silica is a carcinogen found in sand, stone and artificial stone. It can cause silicosis, a chronic disease that involves scarring of the lungs. OSHA estimates that 2.3 million workers are exposed to silica dust each year.
