OSHA Extends Silica Rulemaking Comment Period
Stakeholders have until Jan. 27 to comment and until Dec. 12 to submit a notice of intention to appear at OSHA's "informal public hearings" about the proposed rule.
OSHA announced it is extending the public comment period on its proposed rule to reduce the permissible exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica by 47 days. Several comments had been submitted asking for a 90-day extension.
Now, stakeholders have until Jan. 27 to comment and until Dec. 12 to submit a notice of intention to appear at OSHA's "informal public hearings" about the proposed rule. Those hearings will begin March 18 and are expected to continue for several weeks, according to OSHA.
"We strongly encourage the public to assist in the process of developing a final rule by submitting written comments and participating in public hearings," said Assistant Secretary Dr. David Michaels. "We especially hope to hear from employers, workers, and public health professionals who have experience in successfully protecting workers from silica-related diseases. We are extending the comment period to ensure we hear from all stakeholders who wish to participate."
For information about the proposed rule, visit http://www.osha.gov/silica/.