As of June 23, 2018, the new OSHA General Industry Respirable Crystalline Silica Rule became fully enforceable. The new standard established an 8-hour time-weighted average permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 50 micrograms per cubic meter of air, an action level (AL) of 25 micrograms per cubic meter of air and associated ancillary requirements. Although a postponement of the deadline had been discussed, no delay was granted by the federal regulators. Enforcement will begin on time. 

During the first 30 days following the implementation of the new rule, OSHA will assist employers that demonstrate a good faith effort in meeting the new standard’s requirements. 

If an employer is not making any efforts to comply then citations for non-compliance may be considered. Therefore, it is best to not take any chances and make sure that appropriate measures are being acted upon to move toward compliance. Such measures might include the following: 

• Real-time mapping and a comprehensive audit of the facility

• Implementing necessary engineering controls

• Improving housekeeping

• Employee exposure sampling

• Sampling plan

• Silica exposure control plan

Fortunately, KERAMIDA is prepared to assist organizations interested in complying with this new standard. KERAMIDA's professionals have the technical background and expertise to ensure compliance and a smooth transition to the Crystalline Silica Rule. Call us today at (800) 508-8034 to speak to one of our experts.

Blog Author

Andrew Tirmenstein
Senior Project Manager, Security, Health and Safety Services
KERAMIDA Inc.

Contact Andrew at atirmenstein@keramida.com.