OSHA has published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) to revise its standards for lead exposure.
The agency wants to make these changes since recent research on workplace lead exposure shows adverse health effects can occur in adults at lower blood lead levels than previously recognized in OSHA’s lead standards.
Through the ANPRM, OSHA is seeking input on modifying its current lead standards “for general industry and construction to reduce the triggers for medical removal protection and medical surveillance.”
This will effectively prevent harmful health effects in workers who are exposed to lead when compared to the current standard.
Agency seeking comments on certain topics
OSHA would like public comment on:
- blood lead level triggers for medical removal protection
- medical surveillance provisions, including triggers and frequency of blood lead monitoring
- permissible exposure limit, and
- ancillary provisions for PPE, housekeeping, hygiene and training.
The ANPRM will also gather comments on employers’ current practices that address workplace lead exposure, associated costs and other areas of interest.
