August 2, 2006—The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has released a new educational brochure for roofers concerning exposure to silica dust. “Silicosis—Working with Cement Roofing Tiles: A Silica Hazard;” DHHS (NIOSH) Pub. No. 2006-110, describes measures that can be taken to reduce roofers’ exposure to silica dust, including steps for implementing a respirator program. NIOSH says that respirable silica levels have been measured up to four times the recommended exposure limit around roofers cutting cement products, such as when roofing tiles are cut during the installation process.
