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On February 4, 2020, Federal OSHA released the National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Respirable Crystalline Silica to identify and reduce or eliminate worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) in general industry, maritime, and construction. This NEP targets specific industries expected to have the highest exposures to RCS. Nevada OSHA adopted this NEP February 24, 2020, and this NEP remains in effect in Nevada for general industry and construction. For more information about enforcement history of RCS – refer to the NEP document.
On September 22, 2023, Federal OSHA released a supplement to the Respirable Crystalline Silica NEP that will focus on conducting enhanced enforcement in the engineered stone fabrication and installation industries. Nevada OSHA will support this effort and initiate enhanced enforcement in those industries as part of Nevada OSHA’s ongoing efforts to emphasize inspection activities at industries where RCS is a recognized hazard.
Hazards related to silica can often be mitigated with simple and effective dust controls in most engineered stone fabrication and installation operations. As an employer of workers facing these hazards, you have the legal obligation to implement effective controls and comply with the respirable crystalline silica standards for general industry and/or construction (29 CFR § 1910.1053 and 29 CFR § 1926.1153), as applicable.
Click here to read the full guidance including information about the standards, mitigation and training.
Click here to read the full guidance including information about the standards, mitigation and training.
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