Although a new set of Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs) that aims to reduce worker exposure to respirable crystalline silica is well-meaning, some members of the construction industry are arguing, it creates an unrealistic standard that will be impossible to meet.
“Instead of crafting new and innovative ways to get more firms to comply with the current silica standard, which we know would save even more workers each year, administration officials appear to have instead opted to set a new standard that is well beyond the capabilities of current air filtration and dust removal technologies,” said Stephen E. Sandherr, CEO of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). “Wishing firms could meet this new but unattainable standard will undoubtedly deliver many positive headlines for the administration, but it will be all but impossible for most construction firms to comply with this new rule.”
The new PELs establish a standard that is under half the previous regulation, leading those in the construction industry to great concern. Because so many parts of the industry rely so heavily on crystalline silica when dealing with products like ceramics, glass, bricks, and so on, many production companies will supposedly find themselves unable to continue operating in the face of new, lower limits.
Some groups also say that OSHA may have ignored their recommendations on the subject. “The construction industry submitted hundreds of pages of comments in response to OSHA’s proposal and as we review the final rule we will see whether OSHA has taken these comments into account in developing a standard that is workable,” said Ben Brubeck, Vice President of Regulatory, Labor and State Affairs for Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). “ABC will remain an engaged stakeholder with OSHA in developing viable standards that will promote healthy and safe construction job sites.”
