Work Safely with Silica

A one-stop source of information on how to
prevent a silica hazard and protect workers

About

Who We Are

CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training is a nonprofit dedicated to reducing occupational injuries, illnesses and fatalities in the construction industry. Through our research, training, and service programs, we serve the industry nationwide by collaborating with key partners–including workers, contractors, project owners, health and safety professionals, researchers, key government agencies, unions, and associations—to keep workers safer on the job.  

As the National Construction Center for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), we conduct research and translate it into free tools and resources that contractors and workers can put into practice on job sites.  

Website’s Purpose

In 2010, CPWR, NIOSH and OSHA formed a Research to Practice (r2p) Working Group to facilitate communication and action on critical safety and health issues facing the construction industry. The Working Group identified silica as a priority because dust containing silica is common on construction sites and illnesses caused by breathing silica dust, such as silicosis, are incurable but preventable. 

This site is a result of this collaborative effort with government and industry. It was launched in 2012 as a one-stop source of information to help contractors, workers, and others identify silica hazards, understand the health risk, find equipment and methods – including a planning tool — to mitigate the risks, and stay informed of regulatory efforts. Today, the site includes additional information and resources to help employers understand and comply with OSHA’s Silica Standards for Construction and General Industry issued in 2016.

Supporters 

Thank you to the following organizations who provided the initial advice and support for the development of this website: 

  • American Road & Transportation Builders Association 
  • International Council of Employers of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers 
  • International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers 
  • Laborers’ Health and Safety Fund of North America 
  • National Roofing Contractors Association 
  • Roofers and Waterproofers Research and Education Joint Trust Fund 
  • United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers 
  • Bosch Power Tools 
  • Hilti, Inc. 
  • North America’s Building Trades Unions, AFL-CIO 
  • AFL-CIO Safety and Health Department