We recently had our first silica awareness class and we feel that protecting our workers from the dangers of silica is important. At the end of 2017 the court of appeals met to discuss the industry challenge to OSHAs silica rule and ultimately let the rule stand (http://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/16557-court-of-appeals-rejects-industry-challenge-to-silica-rule-requests-osha-to-consider-medical-removal-protections). The rule lowers the exposure limit for silica from 250 micrograms per cubic meter of air per 8-hour shift to just 50 micrograms (https://www.constructiondive.com/news/what-contractors-need-to-know-about-oshas-new-silica-rule/503127/).
Although it will be a challenge for contractors in the industry we think that tightening regulations to protect workers is a a good thing. We believe in doing everything can to make sure our workers are educated about the risks involved in their work.
Check out this link to find out more about the silica rule.
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