Safety Newsletter
Cal/OSHA Standards Board Considers ETS for Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposure in Engineered Stone Fabrication Industry
The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (Cal/OSHA Standards Board) is considering a proposal to amend regulations for workers in the engineered stone fabrication industry regarding respirable crystalline silica exposure. The proposal aims to implement stricter control measures to address the increasing number of silicosis cases in the industry. Medical professionals and labor-side representatives support the proposal, citing the epidemic of silicosis cases, while some industry representatives oppose it, arguing that there is insufficient supporting data and that it may impact construction building materials availability. An advisory committee will likely review the proposal before a decision is made.