In June 2024, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) published its final ruling for Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) dust exposure.
“The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for respirable crystalline silica from 100 micrograms (µg) to 50 µg per cubic meter of air (µg/m3) over a full-shift exposure, calculated as an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) for all mines.”
This new ruling requires compliance to lowered limits of miners’ RCS exposure and provisions for improvement in respiratory protection.
Here are some frequently asked questions about Respirable Crystalline Silica dust:
- When does this new mandate go into effect?
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- By June 2025 for coal mining operations
- By June 2026 for MNM (metal and nonmetal) mining operations
- What are the dangers of Silica Dust?
- Crystalline Silica Dust can possibly lead to numerous health problems such as lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, COPD, and more. For more information around health concerns, read more from the American Lung Association: https://www.lung.org/blog/silica-dust-lung-diseases
- How do I know if we’re exceeding the exposure limit?
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- Our team at LGG Industrial will come on site and perform technical assessments to determine sources of airborne dust exposure. We will provide a comprehensive report where there could be concern and recommendations to address these issues.
- How do I resolve my Silica Dust exposure?
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- After our team performs a technical assessment, we will implement solutions based on concerning issues. We partner with top suppliers that manufacture silica dust specific solutions to combat these exposure problems.
- Will fixing this remove ALL Respirable Crystalline Silica?
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- Our solution has been tested to achieve 93% dust reduction
- Will I get in trouble if I don’t comply?
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- There is potential for partial or full operation shutdowns if found in non-compliance. Consequentially, your organization could be fined if found in non-compliance.
- How do I get someone to come survey/inspect our current exposure levels?
- How long will it take to implement these Silica Dust suppression solutions?
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- The sooner you reach out, the faster we can implement solutions to reduce your Respirable Cyrstalline Silica dust exposure.
- Why is LGG Industrial the right choice of provider to solve this problem?
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- We want to ensure our customers are in compliance with this new mandate. Through our technical expertise, and partnerships with top suppliers, we are committed to providing exceptional service to our customers and reduce RCS exposure.
- I still don’t know quite enough about this, where can I find more information?
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- We understand the complexities of this new mandate. For more information on this new ruling, click here. Or you can call us at 412-207-1256
