Brick manufacturer fined $124K for exposing workers to silica crystalline respiratory hazards

An OSHA investigation has determined that Henry Brick Co. Inc. exposed workers to silica crystalline respiratory hazards. These hazards have the potential to lead to various health issues, including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and kidney disease. The clay brick manufacturer was cited for 11 serious violations. These violations include failing to reduce employee exposure to respirable crystalline silica to permissible levels (exposure levels are currently 6.5 times higher than acceptable levels), not properly training workers on the dangers of crystalline silica and how to wear required respirators, and failing to offer free medical surveillance to workers exposed to high respirable crystalline silica levels for more than 30 days per year. The company faces $124,212 in penalties.

In a recent quote, OSHA Area Office Director Jose Gonzalez said, “Crystalline silica can be deadly. Workers who are overexposed to it can contract incurable, progressively disabling and sometimes fatal illnesses. This is why employers must take every precaution to protect employees from this danger. Employers with questions about how to develop respiratory protection programs can contact our trained professionals for assistance.”