OSHA releases data on exposure to toxic chemicals

OSHA is releasing 15 years of data detailing workplace exposure to toxic chemicals.

The data is comprised of measurements taken by agency compliance officers during inspections. It includes exposure levels to hazardous chemicals, including asbestos, benzene, beryllium, cadmium, lead, nickel, and silica. David Michaels, assistant secretary of labor for OSHA, said the data offers insights into the levels of toxic chemicals commonly found in workplaces, as well as how exposure levels to specific chemicals are distributed across industries, geographical areas and time.

"We believe this information in the hands of informed, key stakeholders will ultimately lead to a more robust and focused debate on what still needs to be done to protect workers in all sectors, especially in the chemical industry," he said.

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With an understanding of these data and their limitations, Michaels said it can be combined with other related data to target further research into occupational hazards and illness. OSHA will soon make an online search tool available to allow easy public access to the information.

Read more at the WorkersComp Forum homepage.

July 8, 2010

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