Client Alert – OSHA’S National Emphasis Program
Posted on Wed, Aug 12, 2009 @ 02:34 PM
DIRECTIVE NUMBER: CPL 03-00-007 EFFECTIVE DATE: 1/24/08
SUBJECT: National Emphasis Program - Crystalline Silica
Recent inspection activity in Massachusetts, by OSHA inspectors, has been reported at several Life Sciences businesses. The focus of the OSHA inspections has been on employee exposure to crystalline silica which actually dates back to over a dozen years ago. In 1996, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a memorandum establishing a Special Emphasis Program (SEP) for Silicosis, which provided guidance for targeting inspections of worksites with employees at risk of developing silicosis.
This instruction (Directive Number: CPL 03-00-007) establishes a National Emphasis Program (NEP) that expands and builds upon the 1996 SEP. This instruction addresses targeting of worksites with elevated exposure to crystalline silica, as well as silica-related inspection procedures and compliance assistance. All Local Emphasis Programs (LEPs) for silica-related activities may remain in effect under this NEP.
Triumvirate's experienced Environmental Compliance Advisors can assist you in assessing the potential risk for this and other OSHA regulated activities.