OSHA revises beryllium standard for general industry
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Washington — OSHA has finalized revisions to its beryllium standard for general industry. Announced July 13, the final rule includes changes to five definitions and the addition of one definition – beryllium sensitization.
Beryllium is a lightweight metal that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and chronic beryllium disease – also known as berylliosis.
The revised definitions address:
- Beryllium work areas
- Chronic beryllium disease
- A chronic beryllium disease diagnostic center
- Confirmed positive
- Dermal contact with beryllium
Additional revisions include methods of compliance, personal protective clothing and equipment, hygiene areas and practices, housekeeping, medical surveillance, hazard communication, and recordkeeping. A new Appendix A is “designed to supplement the final standard’s definition of beryllium work area,” the notice states.
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The compliance date for these changes is Sept. 14.
OSHA announced proposed alterations to its beryllium standards for the construction and shipyard industries on Sept. 30.
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