The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recently updated the rule for worker exposure to respirable silica. For information regarding the rule and termite treatment drilling in the pest management industry, click here.
In light of the new rule, NPMA is reviewing potential options for conducting standardized laboratory testing of respirable silica exposure over an averaged 8-hour workday for termite technicians. This standardized data may then be used to determine the maximum amount of exposure of silica particles. The results of the study could determine whether implementation of new protocols are necessary for the pest management industry to limit exposure to silica particles exceeding the action level set by OSHA. For any questions regarding the new rule or laboratory testing of silica exposure, email Brittany Campbell at bcampbell@pestworld.org.