Diesel Exhaust Exposure Control Measures

Although OSHA has not established specific standards regarding diesel exhaust exposure for workers in the oil and gas extraction industry, employers in this industry must nonetheless follow the relevant guidelines established for the General Industry (29 CFR 1910). These standards require a combination of engineering controls and administrative controls.

Engineering controls are the most effective means to reduce worker exposure to diesel exhaust. Some examples of engineering controls are as follows:

• Routine maintenance of diesel engines to reduce emissions
• Installation of engine exhaust filters, cleaner burning engines, and diesel oxidation catalysts
• Installation or upgrade of ventilation systems (such as stack exhaust vents to capture and remove emissions in indoor locations)

Administrative controls (that is, measures that change the work process so that the hazard is eliminated) can also be effective. Examples of administrative controls include the following:

• Limiting vehicle speeds and imposing one-way travel routes to reduce traffic congestion
• Prohibiting or restricting unnecessary idling or lugging of engines
• Designating areas in which diesel engine operation or travel is not permitted
• Limiting the number of diesel engines in operation to match the capacity of the ventilation system

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