OSHA takes next step in issuing a silica standard, lower PEL.

OSHA has long indicated its interest in developing a comprehensive silica standard. In 1997, OSHA formally announced its intention to adopt a standard, with a potentially very stringent Personal Exposure Limit (PEL). This year, OSHA listed silica as a top priority and commented that silica remained a "serious threat" to more than two million U.S. workers, including 100,000 high-risk jobs in abrasive blasting, foundry work, stonecutting and tunnel work. OSHA continues to adhere to its objective of issuing a regulation and is on track to convene a crystalline silica Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) panel in September 2003.

Under U.S. law, OSHA is required to convene a small business panel when it decides to promulgate a regulation that would have a significant impact on small business. The panel consists of OSHA officials, the Small Business Administration's (SBA) chief counsel lot advocacy, representatives from the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, as well as small business owners selected to represent the affected industries.

OSHA is expected to recommend at least a 50% reduction in the current PEL. This significant PEL reduction could have a devastating impact on the foundry industry. If figs reduction is instituted, many foundries will need to install new air exhaust systems (at a cost of at least $500,000) with no guarantee of meeting the 50% reduction. Also, a silica standard will likely include provisions for product substitution, engineering controls, training and education, respiratory protection, record keeping, medical removal, and medical screening and surveillance.

The AFS Washington Office is working with the SBA's Office of Advocacy to monitor this issue and weigh-in on the impact to the foundry industry.

For more information, contact Shane Downey at 202/898-1444 or [e-mail].