Overview - New Crystalline Silica Rule

The new crystalline silica rule is effective as of March, 2016, with updates made in June, 2017, and compliance required by June 23, 2018. Note the following details about the new rule:

• Why did OSHA propose a new crystalline silica rule? OSHA proposed the new rule to better protect workers from hazardous conditions that may lead to illness and death. The previous PELs for crystalline silica were adopted in 1971. The PEL formulas and methods for measuring worker exposure have not been commonly used for more than 40 years. The crystalline silica rule was outdated, inconsistent, and hard to understand.
• How does the new rule protect workers? The American Thoracic Society stated, "In the absence of effective specific treatment for silica-related diseases, the only approach remains primary prevention ... control of exposure to respirable silica." The new rule is expected to prevent thousands of deaths and health problems, if it is followed correctly.
• Who is affected by the new rule? The new rule covers about 2.2 million workers over all industries are exposed to respirable crystalline silica in their workplaces, with 320,000 of those workers exposed in general industry and maritime operations. The proposed rule is estimated to provide average net benefits of about $2.8 to $4.7 billion annually over the next 60 years. It is expected to result in annual costs of about $1,242 for the average workplace covered by the rule.

To learn more about Silica Safety visit our General & Maritime Silica Safety Online Training web page.