Silica Exposure - Regulations

In addition to the standards that apply to respiratory hazards in general, oil and gas extraction industry employers must also comply with OSHA rulings that relate specifically to silica exposure.

OSHA Directive - National Emphasis Program - Crystalline Silica (CPL 03-00--007): This directive provides the following information:

• Lists of potential silica exposure hazards and the industrial activities where they are likely to be found
• Up-to-date research and guidelines about how to reduce silica exposure
• Method to calculate the permissible exposure limits (PELs) for dust that contains respirable crystalline silica
• Guidance regarding silica-related inspections

OSHA Standard - The Final Rule: This standard establishes deadlines by which the hydraulic fracturing industry must comply with guidelines that are more stringent than those previously established. The key provisions are as follows:

• Permissible exposure limit (PEL) for workers exposed to silica are reduced.
• Respiratory program requirements for employers are expanded.
• Medical exams and monitoring requirements are expanded.

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