there is one message that should be shouted from the rooftops to every installer in the field, it is the following: Do not dry cut tile using motorized equipment. Only dry cut tile with a snap cutter. Two other activities that every tile contractor must follow in order to be in compliance are: 1) mix dry powder products in accordance with the manufac- turer’s instructions; 2) provide approved dust collec- tion equipment when grinding or mechanically disturbing con- crete surfaces. It is important to be realistic in understanding this issue. It does not make a lot of sense to regu- larly dry cut tile or use angle grind- ers without utilizing a sponge or shroud to control the dust. So to think that installers are going to have to completely change the way they work is just not true. However, the information we are garnering from this study can be shared with tile contractors to help them cre- ate a safer workplace environment and to remove all concerns that the exposure levels of respirable crystalline silica are a risk to our valued installers. The NTCA will work with indus- try leaders to draft a statement that can be used to help tile contrac- tors and affiliates in the industry to communicate inquiries related to OSHA compliance so that others will understand that tile setting is not a health hazard. The NTCA Reference Manual was developed to identify recurring chal- lenges to successful installations of tile and stone,recognize potential problems,and to gain consensus from industry experts on offering solutions. New updates to the following topics: • Spot Bonding • Proper preparation and ANSI require- ments • Curing compounds and release agents • Interior installation of tile over exterior glued plywood • Preparation for thickset installations • Movement joints • Questionable/unsuitable substrates • Backerboards • Concrete substrate issues • Underlayments,trowelable and poured • Loss of underlayment bond to substrate • Cracking underlayment • Soft or powdery underlayment • Poured gypsum underlayments • Steam rooms • Glass tile description • Glass tile installations • Shower issues with tub/shower combo and prefab shower pans • Position statement on thin porcelain tile • Radiant heat issues for tile and stone installations • Recommendation for exterior tile maintenance • Care and maintenance www.tile-assn.com PUBLISHER'S LETTER ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 10 TileLetter | July 2018