OSHA proposal would lower beryllium levels, increase workplace protections

The federal government is proposing a new standard that would dramatically lower workplace exposure to beryllium, a widely used material that can cause lung diseases. The proposal would apply to an estimated 35,000 workers covered by OSHA.

Currently OSHA’s eight-hour permissible exposure limit (PEL) for beryllium is 2.0 micrograms per cubic meter of air. Above that level, employers must take steps to reduce the airborne concentration of beryllium. That standard was originally established in 1948 by the Atomic Energy Commission and adopted by OSHA in 1971. OSHA’s proposed standard would reduce the eight-hour PEL to 0.2 microgram per cubic meter. The proposed rule also would require additional protections, including PPE, medical exams and other medical surveillance, and training.

The 1971 limit significantly reduced fatalities due to acute beryllium disease but, over time, it became clear that exposure below that limit also had damaging long-term health effects. OSHA initially proposed to lower the PEL for beryllium in 1975.

The need for a new standard was recognized by the nation’s primary beryllium product manufacturer, Materion, and the United Steelworkers, the union representing many of those who work with beryllium. Together, they approached OSHA in 2012 to suggest a stronger standard.

OSHA estimates that the rule could prevent almost 100 deaths and 50 serious illnesses each year. Workers who inhale beryllium particles can develop a debilitating, incurable illness known as chronic beryllium disease and are also at increased risk of lung cancer. Dangers arise when beryllium-containing materials are processed in a way that releases airborne beryllium dust, fume, mist, or other forms.

The majority of current worker exposures to beryllium occur in operations such as foundry and smelting operations, machining, beryllium oxide ceramics and composites manufacturing, and dental lab work.

Members of the public may read the proposal and submit written comments at www.federalregister.gov/articles/2015/08/07/2015-17596/occupational-exposure-to-beryllium-and-beryllium-compounds. Comments must be submitted by Nov. 9, 2015.