Respirable crystalline silica is a prevalent and dangerous hazard in construction and demolition work. Annually, approximately 2 million workers are exposed to this hazardous material, with an estimated 840,000 exceeding OSHA’s permissible exposure limit.
Workers engaging in activities such as cutting, drilling, sawing, and crushing materials like rock, stone, brick, and ceramic tiles are at risk of contracting diseases such as silicosis. Proper training and tools are essential for these workers to implement safe practices, thereby preventing disease and saving lives.
All construction and demolition workers who may encounter crystalline silica should receive respirable crystalline silica hazard awareness training.
OSHA Crystalline Silica Standard: Due to the severe risks associated with respirable crystalline silica, OSHA has established a new standard requiring employers to take additional steps to protect workers’ health. Key requirements include:
- Exposure Control Plan: Establish and implement a written plan identifying exposure tasks and protective methods, including restricted access to high exposure areas.
- Competent Person: Designate an individual to implement the exposure control plan.
- Housekeeping Practices: Limit practices that expose workers to silica when feasible alternatives exist.
- Medical Exams: Provide chest X-rays and lung function tests every three years for workers who wear respirators for 30+ days annually.
- Training: Educate workers on operations that result in silica exposure and methods to limit it.
- Record-Keeping: Maintain records of workers’ silica exposure and medical exams.
Learning Objectives: Upon completing the respirable crystalline silica training, participants will be able to:
- Understand what respirable crystalline silica is
- Recognize the effects of respirable crystalline silica on the body
- Identify methods to prevent exposure to crystalline silica
- Properly use and maintain respiratory equipment
- Describe key points of OSHA’s respirable crystalline silica rule
- Identify silica-related hazards and protective measures
