Preventing Silicosis
Every year, more than 250 workers in the United States die with silicosis–an incurable, progressive lung disease caused by overexposure to dust containing silica. Hundreds more become disabled by this disease.
A new rule on respirable crystalline silica will be implemented June 23, 2017 for employers covered by the construction standard, and on June 23, 2018 for the employers covered by the general industry and maritime standard. The new rule intends to limit workers from being exposed to respirable crystalline silica in hopes of curbing lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and kidney disease in workers.
For more guidance and resources for training workers to understand the health risks associated with silica, visit https://www.osha.gov/dsg/topics/silicacrystalline/.
The Center for Construction Research and Training also has an excellent website devoted to working safely with silica. Visit the site at http://www.silica-safe.org.
Hurricane Preparedness Week – Are you ready?
Our organization is fortunate to share a building on NC State Centennial Campus with the Raleigh office of the National Weather Service. These meteorologists are continuously monitoring the weather and establishing forecasts utilizing state-of-the-art meteorological equipment. The week of May 15 – 21, 2016 is posted as Hurricane Preparedness Week for the state of North Carolina. Consider taking time during this week to review the tips on Ready.gov to prepare your business and your family for the upcoming hurricane season.
OSHA also has some valuable workplace advice for emergency preparedness and response on its website:
https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/emergencypreparedness/index.html
