May 31, 2018
Contact: Office of Communications
Phone: 202-693-1999

U.S. Department of Labor Publishes Proposed Extension of Some
Beryllium Standard Compliance Dates
Rule would extend compliance deadline for specific requirements of the beryllium standard for the general industry sector

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) today announced a proposed rule that would extend the compliance date for certain ancillary requirements of the general industry beryllium standard to Dec. 12, 2018. This extension applies to all processes, operations, or areas where workers may be exposed to materials containing beryllium that fall under the scope of the general industry standard.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for a Limited Extension to Select Compliance Dates for Occupational Exposure to Beryllium in General Industry will be published in the Federal Register on June 1, 2018. The extension allows OSHA to complete a planned NPRM that is designed to clarify the standard and to simplify compliance. This proposal will benefit employers covered under this regulation to avoid potential confusion and ensure employers implement necessary and appropriate requirements to protect workers. 

OSHA has also issued a memorandum stating that the ancillary requirements that are affected by this rulemaking will not be enforced until June 25, 2018. Any provisions for which the standard already establishes compliance dates in 2019 (change room and showers) and 2020 (engineering controls) are unaffected by this rulemaking.

The public may participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments during the 30-day comment period. Click here for information on submitting comments on the proposed rule.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, employers are responsible for providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. OSHA’s role is to ensure these conditions for America’s working men and women by setting and enforcing standards, and providing training, education and assistance. For more information, visit www.osha.gov.

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