The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has released its final rule on occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica. The rule consists of two standards, one for construction and the other for general industry and maritime.
- Reduces the permissible exposure limit (PEL )for respirable crystalline silica to 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, averaged over an eight-hour shift.
- Requires employers to: use engineering controls (such as water or ventilation) to limit worker exposure to the PEL; provide respirators when engineering controls cannot adequately limit exposure; limit worker access to high-exposure areas; develop a written exposure control plan; offer medical exams to highly exposed workers; and train workers on silica risks and how to limit exposures.
- Provides medical exams to monitor highly exposed workers and gives them information about their lung health.
- Provides flexibility to help employers – especially small businesses – protect workers from silica exposure.
Automotive repairers are encouraged to review the rule as to the impact on their business practices. The rule will take effect June 23, 2016. To read the full text, click here.
The Automotive Service Association is the largest not-for-profit trade association of its kind dedicated to and governed by independent automotive service and repair professionals. ASA serves an international membership base that includes numerous affiliate, state and chapter groups from both the mechanical and collision repair segments of the automotive service industry.
ASA advances professionalism and excellence in the automotive repair industry through education, representation and member services. To take advantage of the many benefits of membership in ASA, please visit www.ASAshop.org or call (817) 514-2900.
For additional information about ASA, including past media releases, go to www.ASAshop.org, or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.
