Introduction

Crystalline silica is an important industrial material, and occupational exposure occurs not only in the construction industry, but also in mining, manufacturing, maritime industries, and agriculture.

In the construction industry, common workplace operations involving cutting, sawing, drilling, and crushing of concrete, brick, block, rock, and stone products; and operations using sand products, such as sand blasting, can result in the inhalation of small respirable crystalline silica particles in the air.

Crystalline silica is a major part of the raw materials used in the manufacturing of a wide variety of products. These products include concrete, brick, tile, porcelain, pottery, glass, and abrasives. In a finely ground form, silica is called 'silica flour,' and is commonly used in paints, plastics, and other materials.

(OSHA) has issued a final rule to help curb silicosis and other related diseases, such as tuberculosis, lung cancer, and chronic bronchitis, in America's workers. This final rule limits workers' exposure to respirable crystalline silica. The rule comprises two standards - one for the construction industry, and one for the general and maritime industries. This course solely covers the standards for the construction industry.

The new standard went into effect on June 23, 2016. Construction employers were to comply by June 23, 2017, one year after the effective date.

To learn more about Construction Silica visit our Construction Silica Safety Online Training web page.