The Occupational Safety and Health Administration is responsible for creating rules regarding safety in workplaces throughout the nation, including those in the state of Pennsylvania. The rules target specific types of occupations such as the construction sector. This process is somewhat lengthy and has multiple components, including a comment period during which time organizations that operate within the specific sector can provide feedback. Currently, OSHA has a comment period open for a proposed rule that would impact the construction industry. 

Exposure to silica can have a serious impact on the health of individuals consistently inhaling it. The amount inhaled does not need to be large for it to over time, do damage. In addition to causing silicosis, under some circumstances it could result in death

The proposal would significantly lower the exposure limit of respirable crystalline silica. The reason behind the reduction is undoubtedly to make workplaces safer for construction workers exposed to the dust.

The comment period associated with this rule is set to expire in December of this year. Several organizations with a vested interest in the suggested rule changes are seeking to have the comment period extended however. They would like to have the comment period extended by 90 days. The reason behind the request is that the organizations do not feel that the three months provided in the first comment period provides a long enough amount of time to delve into the matter and provide information that would be helpful.

Whether the extension will be granted remains to be seen. Most would likely agree that any measure that would make it safer for workers is a good one.

Source: Occupational Health & Safety magazine, “Groups Seek Comment Extension on Silica Proposed Rule,” Oct. 7, 2013