US Labor Department Announces Final Rule to Improve U.S. Workers’ Protection from the Dangers of ‘Respirable’ Silica Dust

Updated rule amends silica exposure regulations for first time since 1971

WASHINGTON –(ENEWSPF)–March 24, 2016.   The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration today announced a final rule to improve protections for workers exposed to respirable silica dust. The rule will curb lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney disease in America’s workers by limiting their exposure to respirable crystalline silica.

“More than 80 years ago, Labor Secretary Frances Perkins…