OSHA is proposing to amend its existing occupational standard that regulates employee exposure to 1,3-Butadiene (BD), based upon the determination that its current permissible exposure limit (PEL) is inadequate for employee health protection. OSHA proposes to reduce the PEL for BD to an 8-hour time weighted average (TWA) of 2 ppm and a short term exposure limit (STEL) of 10 ppm for 15 minutes. An "action level" of 1 ppm as an 8-hour TWA is included in the proposal as a mechanism for exempting an employer from some administrative burdens, in instances where the employer can demonstrate that the employee''s exposures are consistently at very low levels. In order to achieve the reduced PEL, OSHA proposes a number of requirements including certain provisions for exposure control which are described in the proposal. The proposed standard would apply to all employment in all industries covered by the Act, namely general industry, construction, and maritime. Informal public rulemaking hearings are scheduled in Washington, D.C. on 12/11/90, and New Orleans, LA on 1/8/91. Comments concerning the proposed standard must be postmarked on or before 10/19/90. CONTACT: James Foster (202)523-8151.