The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has tacked 47 days onto the public-comment period for new rules on workplace exposure to crystalline silica. Written comments will now be accepted through Jan. 27, 2014.
OSHA also announced it was extending the deadline for submitting notices of intent to appear at public hearings in March by 30 days, from Nov. 12 to Dec. 12, 2013. The hearings, which start in Washington on March 18, are expected to last a couple of weeks.
Proposed new rules were posted at OSHA’s website in August and published in the Federal Register in September. The new regulations sharply reduce the amount of silica that workers can legally be exposed to during the workday.
Crystalline silica, which is produced when rock, mortar, or a material such as fiber cement is crushed or cut, is composed of tiny particles that can lodge in the lungs and cause a crippling disease called silicosis. OSHA said the new rules would prevent about 1600 new cases of the disease each year and would save hundreds of lives.
Labor groups applauded the new rules. Business groups weren’t enthusiastic.
Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products
Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Handy Heat Gun
Reliable Crimp Connectors
8067 All-Weather Flashing Tape
