Policy
What date does the policy go into effect?
April 2026
Is there any cost to you?
No!!
Will the company receive any of the records for your medical testing?
Absolutely not. The only thing we see is whether or not you are allowed to wear specific types of respirators.
Will you have to purchase a respirator?
No, we have bought them and they will be provided.
What are engineering controls?
Engineering controls remove or reduce dust at its source. Ex. air ventilation, water suppression, vacuums
Will you have to shave?
Yes...there are diagrams posted for acceptable facial hair and non acceptable. The gist - if you have hair where the respirator sits, you will not pass the fit testing.
How often will MSHA conduct dust testing?
Twice a year
Adverse health effects due to respirable crystalline silica exposure?
Silicosis, Lung Cancer, nonmalignant respiratory diseases, and kidney disease. ALL chronic and irreversible.
What are administrative controls?
Changes to work practices or behavior that can help protect miners, ex. keeping work areas clean, working in an area away from a dust source, safely cleaning work clothes, etc.
What is our last line of defensive?
PPE (personal protective equipment)
Our goal is to keep you out of PPE, but we do need to be enrolled in the dust program regardless.
What are the 4 examinations involved?
1. Respirator fit testing
2. Pulmonary function test
3. Chest X-ray
4. Physical
Do you have access to the results?
If you want to see them, yes, if you do not want to see them, you should not have to
What are the current Action Level and Permissible Exposure Limit?
AL: 50µg/m3
PEL: 100µg/m3
What happens if there is an over exposure?
All over exposures need to be reported to MSHA immediately. Work cannot be done until further testing is done or respirators need to be worn properly for the entire shift until testing can be redone and under the AL.
How often does our company need to do dust testing?
Twice a year AND if there are any major changes in the plant.
Types of exposure to silica?
Cutting, sanding, drilling, crushing, grinding, sawing, scraping, jackhammering, excavating, and hauling materials that contain silica.
What is the new Action Level and Permissible Exposure Limit?
AL:25µg/m3
PEL: 50µg/m3
What if I refuse to do the testing?
Unfortunately this is above our control and will be federally regulated. MSHA's exact words for this were, "that is a career choice"
How often will medical testing be done?
Medical exam must be done within one year and then every five years after the first.
Fit testing is every year.
What is silicosis?
A non-curable, lung disease from breathing in dust containing crystalline silica. it causes fibrosis or scar tissue formations in the lungs that reduce the ability of the lungs to work.