Washington — OSHA has finalized revisions to its beryllium standard for general industry. Announced July 13, the final rule includes changes to five definitions and the addition of one new definition – beryllium sensitization.
Beryllium is a lightweight metal that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer and chronic beryllium disease – also known as berylliosis.
The revised definitions address:
- Beryllium work areas
- Chronic beryllium disease
- A chronic beryllium disease diagnostic center
- Confirmed positive
- Dermal contact with beryllium
Additional revisions include methods of compliance, personal protective clothing and equipment, hygiene areas and practices, housekeeping, medical surveillance, hazard communication, and recordkeeping. A new Appendix A is “designed to supplement the final standard’s definition of beryllium work area,” the notice states.
The compliance date for these changes is Sept. 14.
OSHA announced proposed alterations to its beryllium standards for the construction and shipyard industries on Sept. 30.