The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has announced that it will consider good-faith efforts by employers to comply with the new silica rule for the first 30 days following the start of enforcement on Saturday, Sept. 23.

OSHA said it will offer outreach and assistance to help ensure that covered employers are fully and properly complying with the new requirements.

Employers may be cited if it appears, upon inspection, that an employer is not making any efforts to meet the new rule.

Resources and background information for complying with the new rule can be found on NAHB’s website at nahb.org/silica.

NAHB and the Construction Industry Safety Coalition have requested that OSHA withdraw the increased crystalline silica exposure standard and work with the construction industry to develop a more feasible and economical approach to dealing with the silica hazards.

NAHB’s legal challenge on the silica rule is still pending.

OSHA’s memo announcing this information can be read here. For additional information, see our recent coverage. Contact Rob Matuga at 800-368-5242 x8507 with questions.