In a statement issued on August 23, 2013, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued notice that they intend to reduce the current silica dust exposure rate by 50%.          

Advances in wet cutting and industry education have positively aided OSHA in this effort during the past few years. Data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) show a greater than 90 percent reduction in the silicosis mortality rate from 1968 to 2010. The MIA believes that OSHA will continue to have a positive impact if we continue to focus attention on compliance at the current exposure levels. 

Call to Action - we are asking the stone industry to:

1. Study this issue by going online to www.marble-institute.com/silica.

2. Participate in the 90-day public comment period.

3. Contact your U.S. Senate and House of Representative members about your concern on the OSHA ruling.

4. Share all of the posted videos and handouts with your company’s safety committee. NOTE: We are providing several resources free-of-charge to stone companies online at www.marble-institute.com/silica. 

The MIA considers the stone industry as partners with OSHA in this effort, and believe strongly that safety is paramount. However, we recommend that OSHA focus attention on companies that are not in compliance and not hamper economic growth for companies who are in compliance at the current levels.

For more information see the MIA website, or email miainfo@marble-institute.com.