Periodic Monitoring

If initial monitoring shows that the amount of cotton dust present is below the PEL for that particular job, monitoring only needs to be repeated at least once per year. If there is cotton dust present above the PEL, monitoring must be repeated at least every six months. Monitoring must also be repeated whenever there is a change that could affect the amount of cotton dust that employees are exposed to, such as a change in machinery, process, or product.

Employers must let all employees see the results within 15 days of monitoring. If the cotton dust levels exceed the PEL, the employer must specifically say so, and must list the actions that the employer is taking to correct this exposure. Monitoring data must also be made available to the Chief of the Division of Occupational Safety and Health for inspection. Workers must be allowed to witness the monitoring process as long as they wear proper personal protective equipment, such as a respirator.

To learn more about Cotton Dust Safety visit our Cal/OSHA Cotton Dust Safety Online Training web page.