If a worker needs to use a respirator on 30 or more days a year,
he or she would need to be offered a medical exam.
How Do I Know if a Product
Includes Crystalline Silica?
The first step for flooring contractor or installer to see is
a product contains silica is to check the Material Safety
Data Sheet on the material. Absent that, the contractor or
installer can test a sample of the material. If the product is
concrete, stone, tile or glass, it is recommended to assume
it contains silica unless the contractor or installer has spe-
cific information to the contrary. If removing grout, it is
best to assume silica absent proof that the grout is silica
free. Use of Table 1 equipment and procedures is often less
expensive than testing the material or risking the liability
for noncompliance.
health services to small and medium-sized businesses.
On-site consultation services are separate from enforce-
ment, and do not result in penalties or citations. Con-
sultants from state agencies or universities work with
employers to identify workplace hazards, provide advice
on compliance with OSHA standards, and assist in
establishing and improving safety and health manage-
ment systems. To locate the OSHA On-site Consultation
Program nearest you, call 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or
visit www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness. ❚
Notice: The information contained in this article is
abridged from legislation, court decisions, and administra-
tive rulings and should not be construed as legal advice or
opinion, and is not a substitute for the advice of counsel.
When Do I Have to be Concerned?
The potential hazard with crystalline silica is when it is
airborne. According, any task that cause crystalline silica
dust is covered by the regulation. This includes abrasive
blasting, tuck pointing, masonry cutting, surface grind-
ing, concrete, mortar and grout mixing, using a chipping
gun or jackhammer, and walk-behind saw. As previously
explained, when in doubt, it is safer to assume the need to
comply with the regulation.
Conclusion
Given the complexities of the regulations, flooring deal-
ers, contractors, and installers should immediately set up a
compliance plan. Failure to do so could expose employers
to significant liability and fines.
OSHA can provide help through a variety of pro-
grams, including technical assistance about effective safety
and health programs, workplace consultations, and train-
ing and education. Additional information on OSHA’s sil-
ica rule can be found at www.osha.gov/silica.
OSHA also has an “On-site Consultation Program”
that offers free and confidential occupational safety and
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