Document DGOj2koD3eB5mD1p35DMxOa65

SUMMARY OF OSH A ASBESTOS STANDARD EFFECTIVE JULY 1. P7S Under the current standard, it is the employer's responsibility to assure that exposure of employees does not exceed the following permissible exposure levels. a. Eight hour time weighted average: Two fibers, longer than five micrometers, per cubic centimeter. b. Ceiling concentrations; Ten fibers, longer than 5 micrometers, per cubic centimeter. Engineering controls such as isolation, enclosure, exhaust ventilation and dust collection are the preferred methods for meeting the prescribed exposure limits. Respiratory protection is required whenever airborne fiber concentrations exceed either the permissible time weighted average level or the permissible celling concentration and protective clothing is required whenever airborne fiber concentrations exceed the permissible ceiling level. The standard requires that all workplaces where asbestos fibers may be released shall be monitored to. determine exposure levels. Caution signs must be displayed at each workplace where asbestos fiber concentrations exceed permissible exposure limits and all external surfaces, machinery and equipment must be maintained free of asbestos fiber accumulation. Employers must maintain records of monitoring required by the standard and must provide or make available medical examinations for employees exposed to airborne concentrations of asbestos fibers. Refer to the Appendix for availability of the full text of the 05HA*tta&eSta3 Standard. DRAFT - MARCH 13, 1978