Topic Spotlight

 

FEATURED PRODUCT

OSHA Standards for the Construction Industry as of January 2011
This book contains the occupational safety and health standards for the construction industry promulgated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), effective January 2011.

Learn More »

OSHA addresses need for combustible dust standard

WASHINGTON—The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) will publish an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) in the Oct. 21 edition of the Federal Register as an initial step in development of a standard to address the hazards of combustible dust.

OSHA has been conducting a Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program (NEP) since October 2007; a status report is available at http://www.osha.gov/dep/combustibledust/NEP-status-report.pdf. The NEP has resulted in an unusually high number of general duty clause violations, indicating a strong need for a combustible dust standard. The general duty clause is not as effective as a comprehensive combustible dust standard would be at protecting workers. Responses to questions posed in the ANPR will help the agency propose an effective combustible dust standard.

Combustible dusts are solids ground into fine particles, fibers, chips, chunks or flakes that can cause a fire or explosion when suspended in air under certain conditions. Types of dust likely to combust include metal (aluminum and magnesium), wood, plastic or rubber, coal, flour, sugar and paper.

The Federal Register notice is available at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-25075.pdf. The public has 90 days to comment on the proposed ANPR. The agency also will conduct stakeholder meetings and will analyze all information and comments received from the public in developing a proposed rule on combustible dust.

For More Information

Employment Safety and Health Guide - Stay current with OSHA standards, cases, and agency developments.
An essential research tool for legal counsel and safety professionals who need complete and timely coverage of the workplace regulations issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This easy-to-follow, topically arranged resource provides comprehensive coverage of the legal and practical aspects of job safety and health. Learn More »