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Slide 5
    TEXT VERSION OF SLIDE:

    Title: Features of NEP
    Content:

    • Expands 1996 SEP memorandum
    • Provides updated research results on silica exposure hazards
    • Details inspection procedures, including follow-up inspections where overexposure found
    • Addresses targeting of worksites and provides updated NAICS codes for industries with worker exposure to crystalline silica
    • Explains calculation of PELS in General Industry, Construction, and Maritime
    • Establishes program evaluation procedures
    • Provides for Regional and Area Office outreach programs
    [Includes the OSHA logo]

    Speaker Notes:

    In 1996, OSHA established a Special Emphasis Program (SEP) for Silicosis, which provided guidance for targeting inspections of worksites with employees at risk of developing silicosis. The SEP was a memorandum.

    This National Emphasis Program (NEP) is a compliance directive that builds upon and expands the 1996 SEP by including updated information and policies and procedures adopted since 1996.

    The NEP addresses targeting of worksites with elevated exposure to crystalline silica, as well as silica-related inspection procedures. NAICS = North American Industrial Classification System.

    The NEP provides information based on current research regarding silica exposure hazards.

    The NEP Instruction provides guidance on calculating the permissible exposure limits (PELs) for dust containing respirable crystalline silica in General Industry, Construction and Maritime industries, using the OSHA-adopted conversion factor of 0.1 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3) per 1 million particles per cubic foot (mppcf), described in Appendix E.

    Procedures are established to evaluate the NEP.

    The NEP provides for the development of outreach programs by each Region and Area Office, emphasizing the formation of voluntary partnerships to share information on effective methods for reducing or eliminating employee exposure to crystalline silica.