Final Beryllium Rule Lowers Exposure Limit for Workers
In a final rule issued the first week of 2017, OSHA has lowered the beryllium exposure limit and established new key provisions to protect workers in a broad range of industries.
OSHA’s final rule lowering the permissible exposure limit (PEL) for beryllium couldn’t come soon enough, according to safety industry advocates.
About 62,000 workers are exposed to beryllium during their work day, including 11,500 construction and shipyard workers, according to OSHA. Beryllium, either inhaled or through skin contact, contributes to an increased risk of lung cancer, chronic lung disease and various sudden on-set respiratory ailments among workers.
