ASK THE EXPERTS QUESTION We are reaching out to touch base on the newly-released silica standards in construction. You guys come in contact with a number of other contractors on a day-to- day basis. We are wondering what safety precautions other contrac- tors are taking to better align them- selves with OSHA’s standards. We had OSHA inspectors on a project today at a local col- lege. They have interviewed our employees in regards to company policy, etc. We have yet to receive feedback from our guys or receive formal notification from the GC. Our guys use vacuums with dust masks when grinding tile or mix- ing mud. We grind outside when possible. Other than that, it has been a supervised common-sense approach to what we feel is appro- priate. Obviously we want to remain compliant and keep our guys safe. We are looking for any input or direction you guys can provide to help us better formulate a compliance policy to keep every- one happy and safe. Look forward to hearing back from you. ANSWER Thanks for getting in touch with us about this very important topic. NTCA has prepared some doc- umentation for you to develop a Silica Exposure Plan to help you understand and meet OSHA Regulation requirements. It can be found on our website at this link: https://www.tile-assn.com/page/ PositionStatLibrary. NTCA is working with experts from the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and OSHA to increase our knowledge and stay up-to-speed on the latest devel- Sponsored by Ask the Experts Q&As are culled from member inqui- ries to NTCA’s Technical Support staff. To become a member and make use of personal, targeted answers from Technical Support staff to your installation ques- tions, contact Jim Olson at jim@tile-assn.com. e-Learning Program Industry and product information in short, easy segments Train from the comfort of your home or office anytime Fast and easy to access, listen to, and complete A-8656-0219 ©2019 LATICRETE International, Inc. All trademarks shown are the intellectual properties of their respective owners. Register today at laticrete.com/university 24 TileLetter | March 2019