OSHA’s New Silica Rule: What It Means for South Carolina Industries
Wednesday, November 15th, 2017
In 2016, for the first time in 40 years, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration updated its silica standards. Construction is a major industry in South Carolina and must now figure out how to adapt to these new regulations. Silica, as a major component of construction materials, can be found in asphalt, concrete, drywall, and plaster- and can be hazardous to construction and maintenance groups, occupants of a facility and nearby properties. OSHA’s new regulations attempt to mitigate the risks associated with working with material that contains silica.
To comply with new standards, contractors can:
-
Provide devices that spray water at the point where the substance is being cut or provide dust collection systems
-
Provide respirators when engineering controls are inadequate
-
Develop written exposure control plan and review annually
-
Provide medical evaluations and exams for individuals wearing respirator for 30 days or more
-
Keep records of workers’ exposure to silica and related medical treatment
-
Train workers and supervisors on risks and how to limit exposure to silica
With the new regulations come increased costs for contractors. While OSHA estimates an annual cost of $1 billion, industry groups expect that the annual cost of compliance will be closer to $4-5 billion. Though OSHA estimates that the economic benefits will offset these costs, the change in silica standards will almost certainly impact costs across the industry.
Costs for Contractors include:
-
Purchasing new machinery, tools, and equipment
-
Ongoing training and education
-
Medical surveillance and recordkeeping
-
Making other investments
If contractors do not meet the new OSHA standards, they will be subject to fines of $12,675 per violation. These increased costs for contractors will be reflected in their bids. Because of the prevalence of silica in construction materials, even the most rudimentary construction jobs may be affected by this new standard. Facility owners will now have to be concerned with the presence of silica when making modifications or expansions of existing facilities, along with new construction, expansion, and retrofit projects. In addition, the disclosure of any known silica containing materials must be included in any purchase, uplift, or renovation of a facility.
Based on the new standards, facility owners must:
-
Address presence of silica in all stages of project planning
-
Take appropriate precautions
-
Use contractors who have taken a proactive approach to dealing with the mandates
While these new silica standards improve workers safety, they increase operating costs – creating a ripple effect across industry in SC.