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U.S. Department of Labor | April 6, 2017
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced a delay in enforcement of the crystalline silica
standard that applies to the construction
industry to conduct additional outreach and provide educational materials and
guidance for employers.
The
agency has determined that additional guidance is necessary due to the unique
nature of the requirements in the construction standard. Originally scheduled
to begin June 23, 2017, enforcement will now begin Sept. 23, 2017.
OSHA
expects employers in the construction industry to continue to take steps either
to come into compliance with the new permissible exposure limit, or to
implement specific dust controls for certain operations as provided in Table 1
of the standard. Construction employers should also continue to prepare to
implement the standard’s other requirements, including exposure assessment,
medical surveillance and employee training.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing
safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to
ensure these conditions for America’s
working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing
training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.
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Media Contacts:
Amy Louviere, 202-693-9423, louviere.amy@dol.gov
Amanda Kraft, 202-693-4664, kraft.amanda.c@dol.gov
Release Number: 17-415-NAT
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