Brief overview of the OSHAs 2017 Silica Rule. In addition, it describes controls and work practices that aid in reducing workers’ exposure to silica dust.

Respirable crystalline silica is particularly hazardous for the nation’s workers, yet OSHA’s previous permissible exposure limits for silica are more than 40 years old and are based on research from the 1960s and earlier that do not reflect more recent scientific evidence. Strong evidence shows that the previous exposure limits do not adequately protect worker health.
This course provides a brief overview of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s 2017 Silica Rule. In addition, it describes controls and work practices that aid in reducing workers’ exposure to silica dust.
Topics: Health impacts of crystalline silica Need for a silica rule Impacts on industry Rule requirements Compliance dates State plans and compliance assistance
Intended Audience: This course is intended for civil, construction, mechanical, and mining engineers concerned with the exposure of the labor force to crystalline dust.
Publication Source: This course is based on the publications: OSHA Frequently Asked Questions: Respirable Crystalline Silica Rule; Assigned Protection Factors for the Revised Respiratory Standard, OSHA Publication 3352-02, 2009 (excerpts); and OSHA's Final Rule to Protect Workers from Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica, Construction Standard, §1926.1153 Respirable crystalline silica. Table 1. (excerpts).

Civil Engneering faculty member for 27 years
Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Illinois. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published numerous technical journal articles and technical reports for a variety of governmental agencies and private sector organizations. Mark P. Rossow, PE, PhD Licensed Professional Engineer in State of Illinois License No. 062.040560 Dr. Rossow is a graduate of the University of Michigan with B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees. He taught civil engineering for over 35 years, including six years at Washington University in St. Louis and 29 years at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he was the Chair of the Civil Engineering Department for ten years. His areas of expertise are in civil engineering and mechanics. He has consulted for various organizations, including government agencies and an international offshore drilling company. He has published many journal articles and technical reports.