Department of Labor announces enforcement, compliance initiative to protect workers from silica exposure in engineered stone fabrication, installation

Summary:

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has launched a new initiative to enhance enforcement and provide compliance assistance to protect workers in the engineered stone fabrication and installation industries. The initiative aims to address the high risk of silicosis and other respiratory diseases associated with silica dust exposure. The move comes after a study by the American Medical Association found that 52 male patients in California diagnosed with silicosis were caused by occupational exposure to respirable silica dust from engineered stone. OSHA will prioritize inspections in industries such as Cut Stone and Stone Product Manufacturing, Brick, Stone and Related Construction Material Merchant Wholesalers, and engage in outreach efforts with additional industries that work with engineered stone. The initiative includes providing fact sheets on dust control methods and safer work practices for engineered stone operations.