Crystalline Silica

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final rule to help protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica, which is being phased into effect starting on June 23, 2016. The new rule revises the Permissible exposure limit (PEL) for crystalline silica to a level approximately one-half to one-fourth of the previous limits.

Crystalline silica is a mineral commonly found in sand, stone, rock, concrete, brick, block or mortar. Workers are exposed to crystalline silica dust in many daily operations like cutting, sawing, drilling or crushing components that contain crystalline silica. Industries affected by this new rule include construction, general industry, maritime and hydraulic fracturing.

EMSL Analytical, Inc. is accredited to ISO/IEC Standard 17025:2005 with respect to crystalline silica through the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). EMSL Analytical, Inc. provides testing services for crystalline silica including alpha quartz, cristobalite and tridymite as well as amorphous silica. EMSL can help you meet the new standards.