On April 18th, 2024, the US Department of Labor has issued a final rule that reduces the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for crystalline silica in mines. Silica dust is a known health hazard that can cause silicosis, a debilitating lung disease. The new rule is intended to better protect miners from irreversible workplace illnesses, it will take effect on June 17th, 2024.
Health Risks of Silica Dust
Silica dust is a component of sand, rock, and quartz. When miners inhale silica dust, it can scar the lungs, leading to silicosis, which reduces their ability to take in oxygen. Silicosis can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. In severe cases, it can be fatal.
New Exposure Limits
The final rule reduces the PEL for silica dust to to 50 μg/m3 of air for a full-shift exposure, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average. This is a significant reduction that will help to reduce miners’ risk of developing silicosis. The action level, or the amount warranting remedial action, is 25 μg/m3 of air.
Requirements for Mine Operators
The final rule also requires mine operators to take a number of steps to protect miners from silica dust exposure. These steps include:
- Implementing engineering controls to reduce dust levels
- Providing miners with respiratory protection
- Monitoring miners’ exposure to silica dust
- Taking corrective actions if miners are overexposed
Medical Surveillance Programs
The final rule also requires mine operators to establish medical surveillance programs for miners. These programs will include chest X-rays and lung function testing to help identify miners who are developing silicosis.
The agency estimated that the rules will prevent over 1,000 deaths and nearly 4,000 cases of silica-related illness.
Conclusion
The new silica dust limits are a significant step forward in protecting miners’ health. These limits will help to reduce miners’ risk of developing silicosis and other lung diseases.
This is just a summary of the article. You can find more information on the MSHA website.
- Docket No. MSHA–2023–0001
- RIN 1219-AB36
- 30 CFR Parts 56, 57, 60, 70, 71, 72, 75, and 90
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