On Tuesday, April 16, the Labor Department finally issued rules regarding worker exposure to silica dust. The exposure limit has now been lowered, and metal and nonmetal mine operators must put in place medical surveillance programs. Silica dust is linked to many respiratory illnesses, some of which are terminal. These include silicosis, lung cancer, black lung disease, and more. Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su said the health hazards have been known for decades.
Read the full story by Zack Budryk for The Hill, published here: https://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/4596263-biden-administration-finalizes-long-delayed-rule-on-silica-dust-exposure/
