A proposed new standard from the government aims to lower the current permissible levels of beryllium exposure, a move that will affect more than 35,000 workers in the United States. This new standard was requested by both Materion, the primary manufacturer of beryllium products in the U.S., and the United Steelworkers union. Because of this, it should be very easy to implement.
OSHA estimates this new standard could save up to 100 lives and prevent 50 serious illnesses every year, while also helping workers avoid minor exposure-related injuries that add up over time. The last time the beryllium exposure standards were updated was in the 1970s, but even exposures below that limit have proven to be dangerous to workers.
This new regulation will be helpful for both workers and their employers, and could be useful in instigating positive change for safety standards in the manufacturing industry.
