Advertisement

If you have an ACS member number, please enter it here so we can link this account to your membership. (optional)

ACS values your privacy. By submitting your information, you are gaining access to C&EN and subscribing to our weekly newsletter. We use the information you provide to make your reading experience better, and we will never sell your data to third party members.

ENJOY UNLIMITED ACCES TO C&EN

Environment

OSHA Begins Process To Regulate Dust

by Jeff Johnson
November 2, 2009 | A version of this story appeared in Volume 87, Issue 44

OSHA has published an advanced notice of proposed rule-making to formally regulate combustible dust in the workplace. The need for a comprehensive national regulation for combustible and explosive dust has been growing for years. A 2006 study by the Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board found 281 U.S. industrial dust accidents over a 25-year period, resulting in 119 worker deaths and 718 injuries. A national regulation would affect chemical companies and a wide range of other industries whose operations generate fine, explosive material (C&EN, Sept. 28, page 12). Labor unions have been pushing OSHA to move quickly on the regulation. "This notice is an important first step on the way to a permanent rule," says Jackie Nowell, occupational safety and health director of the United Food & Commercial Workers International Union. Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.) also applauds the action, calling it a "breath of fresh air after years of foot-dragging by the previous Administration." Last year, the House passed legislation ordering OSHA to issue dust regulations, and this past February, Miller and other House members reintroduced similar legislation.

Article:

This article has been sent to the following recipient:

0 /1 FREE ARTICLES LEFT THIS MONTH Remaining
Chemistry matters. Join us to get the news you need.