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The color depends on the difference of the two visible indices of refraction and the thickness of the crystal. The maximum difference available is the difference between the alpha and the gamma axes. This maximum difference is usually tabulated as the birefringence of the crystal.
For this test, align the fiber at 45 deg. to the polarization directions in order to maximize the contribution to each of the optical axes. The colors seen are called retardation colors. They arise from the recombination of light which has traveled through the two separate directions of the crystal. One of the rays is retarded behind the other since the light in that direction travels slower. On recombination, some of the colors which make up white light are enhanced by constructive interference and some are suppressed by destructive interference. The result is a color dependent on the difference between the indices and the thickness of the crystal. The proper colors, thicknesses, and retardations are shown on a Michel-Levy chart. The three items, retardation, thickness and birefringence are related by the following relationship:
R = t (n gamma - n alpha) R = retardation, t = crystal thickness in m m, and n alpha, gamma = indices of refraction.
Examination of the equation for asbestos minerals reveals that the visible colors for almost all common asbestos minerals and fiber sizes are shades of gray and black. The eye is relatively poor at discriminating different shades of gray. It is very good at discriminating different colors. In order to compensate for the low retardation, a compensator is added to the light train between the polarization elements. The compensator used for this test is a gypsum plate of known thickness and birefringence. Such a compensator when oriented at 45 deg. to the polarizer direction, provides a retardation of 530 nm of the 530 nm wavelength color. This enhances the red color and gives the background a characteristic red to red-magenta color. If this "full-wave" compensator is in place when the asbestos preparation is inserted into the light train, the colors seen on the fibers are quite different. Gypsum, like asbestos has a fast axis and a slow axis. When a fiber is aligned with its fast axis in the same direction as the fast axis of the gypsum plate, the ray vibrating in the slow direction is retarded by both the asbestos and the gypsum. This results in a higher retardation than would be present for either of the two minerals. The color seen is a second order blue. When the fiber is rotated 90 deg. using the rotating stage, the slow direction of the fiber is now aligned with the fast direction of the gypsum and the fast direction of the fiber is aligned with the slow direction of the gypsum. Thus, one ray vibrates faster in the fast direction of the gypsum, and slower in the slow direction of the fiber; the other ray will vibrate slower in the slow direction of the gypsum and faster in the fast direction of the fiber. In this case, the effect is subtractive and the color seen is a first order yellow. As long as the fiber thickness does not add appreciably to the color, the same basic colors will be seen for all asbestos types except crocidolite. In crocidolite the colors will be weaker, may be in the opposite directions, and will be altered by the blue absorption color natural to crocidolite. Hundreds of other materials will give the same colors as asbestos, and therefore, this test is not definitive for asbestos. The test is useful in discriminating against fiberglass or other amorphous fibers such as some synthetic fibers. Certain synthetic fibers will show retardation colors different than asbestos; however, there are some forms of polyethylene and aramid which will show morphology and retardation colors similar to asbestos minerals. This test must be supplemented with a positive identification test when birefringent fibers are present which cannot be excluded by morphology. This test is relatively ineffective for use on fibers less than 1 m m in diameter. For positive confirmation TEM or SEM should be used if no larger bundles or fibers are visible.
4.6. Dispersion Staining
Dispersion microscopy or dispersion staining is the method of choice for the identification of asbestos in bulk materials. Becke line analysis is used by some laboratories and yields the same results as does dispersion staining for asbestos and can be used in lieu of dispersion staining. Dispersion staining is performed on the same platform as the phase-polar analysis with the analyzer and compensator removed. One polarizing element remains to define the direction of the light so that the different indices of refraction of the fibers may be separately determined. Dispersion microscopy is a dark-field technique when used for asbestos. Particles are imaged with scattered light. Light which is unscattered is blocked from reaching the eye either by the back field image mask in a McCrone objective or a back field image mask in the phase condenser. The most convenient method is to use the rotating phase condenser to move an oversized phase ring into place. The ideal size for this ring is for the central disk to be just larger than the objective entry aperture as viewed in the back focal plane. The larger the disk, the less scattered light reaches the eye. This will have the effect of diminishing the intensity of dispersion color and will shift the actual color seen. The colors seen vary even on microscopes from the same manufacturer. This is due to the different bands of wavelength exclusion by different mask sizes. The mask may either reside in the condenser or in the objective back focal plane. It is imperative that the analyst determine by experimentation with asbestos standards what the appropriate colors should be for each asbestos type. The colors depend also on the temperature of the preparation and the exact chemistry of the asbestos. Therefore, some slight differences from the standards should be allowed. This is not a serious problem for commercial asbestos uses. This technique is used for identification of the indices of refraction for fibers by recognition of color. There is no direct numerical readout of the index of refraction. Correlation of color to actual index of refraction is possible by referral to published conversion tables. This is not necessary for the analysis of asbestos. Recognition of appropriate colors along with the proper morphology are deemed sufficient to identify the commercial asbestos minerals. Other techniques including SEM, TEM, and XRD may be required to provide additional information in order to identify other types of asbestos
Make a preparation in the suspected matching high dispersion oil, e.g., n=1.550 for chrysotile. Perform the preliminary tests to determine whether the fibers are birefringent or not. Take note of the morphological character. Wavy fibers are indicative of chrysotile while long, straight, thin, frayed fibers are indicative of amphibole asbestos. This can aid in the selection of the appropriate matching oil. The microscope is set up and the polarization direction is noted as in Section 4.4. Align a fiber with the polarization direction. Note the color. This is the color parallel to the polarizer. Then rotate the fiber rotating the stage 90 deg. so that the polarization direction is across the fiber. This is the perpendicular position. Again note the color. Both colors must be consistent with standard asbestos minerals in the correct direction for a positive identification of asbestos. If only one of the colors is correct while the other is not, the identification is not positive. If the colors in both directions are bluish-white, the analyst has chosen a matching index oil which is higher than the correct matching oil, e.g. the analyst has used n=1.620 where chrysotile is present. The next lower oil (Section 3.5.) should be used to prepare another specimen. If the color in both directions is yellow-white to straw-yellow-white, this indicates that the index of the oil is lower than the index of the fiber, e.g. the preparation is in n=1.550 while anthophyllite is present. Select the next higher oil (Section 3.5.) and prepare another slide. Continue in this fashion until a positive identification of all asbestos species present has been made or all possible asbestos species have been ruled out by negative results in this test. Certain plant fibers can have similar dispersion colors as asbestos. Take care to note and evaluate the morphology of the fibers or remove the plant fibers in pre-preparation. Coating material on the fibers such as carbonate or vinyl may destroy the dispersion color. Usually, there will be some outcropping of fiber which will show the colors sufficient for identification. When this is not the case, treat the sample as described in Section 3.3. and then perform dispersion staining. Some samples will yield to Becke line analysis if they are coated or electron microscopy can be used for identification.
5. References
5.1. Crane, D.T., Asbestos in Air, OSHA method ID160, Revised November 1992.
5.2. Ford, W.E., Dana's Textbook of Mineralogy; Fourth Ed.; John Wiley and Son, New York, 1950, p. vii.
5.3. Selikoff, I.J., Lee, D.H.K., Asbestos and Disease, Academic Press, New York, 1978, pp. 3,20.
5.4. Women Inspectors of Factories. Annual Report for 1898, H.M. Statistical Office, London, p. 170 (1898).
5.5. Selikoff, I.J., Lee, D.H.K., Asbestos and Disease, Academic Press, New York, 1978, pp. 26,30.
5.6. Campbell, W.J., et al, Selected Silicate Minerals and Their Asbestiform Varieties, United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, Information Circular 8751, 1977.
5.7. Asbestos, Code of Federal Regulations, 29 CFR 1910.1001 and 29 CFR 1926.58.
5.8. National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants; Asbestos NESHAP Revision, Federal Register, Vol. 55, No. 224, 20 November 1990, p. 48410.
5.9. Ross, M. The Asbestos Minerals: Definitions, Description, Modes of Formation, Physical and Chemical Properties and Health Risk to the Mining Community, Nation Bureau of Standards Special Publication, Washington, D.C., 1977.
5.10. Lilis, R., Fibrous Zeolites and Endemic Mesothelioma in Cappadocia, Turkey, J. Occ Medicine, 1981, 23,(8),548-550.
5.11. Occupational Exposure to Asbestos - 1972, U.S. Department of Health Education and Welfare, Public Health Service, Center for Disease Control, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, HSM-72-10267.
5.12. Campbell,W.J., et al, Relationship of Mineral Habit to Size Characteristics for Tremolite Fragments and Fibers, United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines, Information Circular 8367, 1979.
5.13. Mefford, D., DCM Laboratory, Denver, private communication, July 1987.
5.14. Deer, W.A., Howie, R.A., Zussman, J., Rock Forming Minerals, Longman, Thetford, UK, 1974.
5.15. Kerr, P.F., Optical Mineralogy; Third Ed. McGraw-Hill, New York, 1959.
5.16. Veblen, D.R. (Ed.), Amphiboles and Other Hydrous Pyriboles - Mineralogy, Reviews in Mineralogy, Vol 9A, Michigan, 1982, pp 1- 102.
5.17. Dixon, W.C., Applications of Optical Microscopy in the Analysis of Asbestos and Quartz, ACS Symposium Series, No. 120, Analytical Techniques in Occupational Health Chemistry, 1979.
5.18. Polarized Light Microscopy, McCrone Research Institute, Chicago, 1976.
5.19. Asbestos Identification, McCrone Research Institute, G & G printers, Chicago, 1987.
5.20. McCrone, W.C., Calculation of Refractive Indices from Dispersion Staining Data, The Microscope, No 37, Chicago, 1989.
5.21. Levadie, B. (Ed.), Asbestos and Other Health Related Silicates, ASTM Technical Publication 834, ASM, Philadelphia 1982.
5.22. Steel, E. and Wylie, A., Riordan, P.H. (Ed.), Mineralogical Characteristics of Asbestos, Geology of Asbestos Deposits, pp. 93-101, SME-AIME, 1981.
5.23. Zussman, J., The Mineralogy of Asbestos, Asbestos: Properties, Applications and Hazards, pp. 45-67 Wiley, 1979.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3. Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
Appendix L
Work Practices and Engineering Controls for Automotive Brake and Clutch
Inspection, Disassembly, Repair and Assembly Mandatory
This mandatory appendix specifies engineering controls and work practices that must be implemented by the employer during automotive brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations. Proper use of these engineering controls and work practices by trained employees will reduce employees' asbestos exposure below the permissible exposure level during clutch and brake inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations. The employer shall institute engineering controls and work practices using either the method set forth in subsection [A] or subsection [B] of this appendix, or any other method which the employer can demonstrate to be equivalent in terms of reducing employee exposure to asbestos, as defined, and which meets the requirements described in subsection [C] of this appendix. For those facilities in which no more than 5 pairs of brakes or 5 clutches are inspected, disassembled, reassembled, and/or repaired per week, the method set forth in subsection [D] of this appendix may be used.
[A] Negative Pressure Enclosure/HEPA Vacuum System Method:
(1) The brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly operations shall be enclosed to cover and contain the clutch or brake assembly and to prevent the release of asbestos fibers into the worker's breathing zone.
(2) the enclosure shall be sealed tightly and thoroughly inspected for leaks before work begins on brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair, and assembly.
(3) The enclosure shall be such that the worker can clearly see the operation and shall provide impermeable sleeves through which the worker can handle the brake and clutch inspection, disassembly, repair and assembly. The integrity of the sleeves and ports shall be examined before work begins.
(4) A HEPA-filtered vacuum shall be employed to maintain the enclosure under negative pressure throughout the operation. Compressed-air may be used to remove asbestos fibers or particles from the enclosure.
(5) The HEPA vacuum shall be used first to loosen the asbestos-containing residue from the brake and clutch parts, and then to evacuate the loosened asbestos-containing material from the enclosure and capture the material in the vacuum filter.
(6) The vacuum's filter, when full, shall be first wetted with a fine mist of water, then removed and placed immediately in an impermeable container, labeled according to subsection (k)(8) of this section, and disposed of according to subsection (l) of this section.
(7) Any spills or releases of asbestos-containing waste material from inside of the enclosure or vacuum hose or vacuum filter shall be immediately cleaned up and disposed of according to subsection (l) of this section.
[B] Low Pressure/Wet Cleaning Method:
(1) A catch basin shall be placed under the brake assembly, positioned to avoid splashes and spills.
(2) The reservoir shall contain water containing an organic solvent or wetting agent. The flow of liquid shall be controlled such that the brake assembly is gently flooded to prevent the asbestos-containing brake dust from becoming airborne.
(3) The aqueous solution shall be allowed to flow between the brake drum and brake support before the drum is removed.
(4) After removing the brake drum, the wheel hub and back of the brake assembly shall be thoroughly wetted to suppress dust.
(5) The brake support plate, brake shoes and brake components used to attach the brake shoes shall be thoroughly washed before removing the old shoes.
(6) In systems using filters, the filters when full shall be first wetted with a fine mist of water, then removed and placed immediately in an impermeable container labeled according to subsection (k)(8) of this section, and disposed of according to subsection (l) of this section.
(7) Any spills of asbsetos-containing aqueous solution or any asbsetos-containing waste material shall be cleamed up immediately and disposed of according to subsection (l) of this section.
(8) The use of dry brushing during low pressure/wet cleaning operations is prohibited.
[C] Equivalent Methods:
An equivalent method is one which has sufficient written detail so that it can be reproduced, and for which it has been demonstrated that the exposures resulting from the equivalent method are equal to or less than the exposures which would result form the use of the method described in subsection [A] of this appendix. For purposes of making this comparison, the employer shall assume that exposures resulting from the use of the method described in subsection [A] of this appendix shall not exceed 0.016 f/cc, as measured by the OSHA reference method and as averaged over at least 18 personal samples.
[D] Wet Method:
(1) A spray bottle, hose nozzle, or other implement capable of delivering a fine mist of water or amended water, or other delivery system capable of delivering water at low pressure, shall be used to first thoroughly wet the brake and clutch parts. Brake and clutch components shall then be wiped clean with a cloth.
(2) The cloth shall be placed in an impermeable container, labeled according to subsection (k)(8) of this section, and then disposed of according to subsection (l) of this section; or the cloth shall be laundered in a way to prevent the release of asbestos fibers in excess of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air.
(3) Any spills of solvent or any asbstos-containing waste material shall be cleaned up immediately according to subsection (l) of this section.
(4) The use of dry brushing during the wet method operations is prohibited.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 8359. Chromium (VI).
(a) Scope.
(1) This standard applies to occupational exposures to chromium (VI) in all forms and compounds in shipyards, marine terminals, and longshoring, except:
(2) Exposures that occur in the application of pesticides regulated by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or another Federal government agency (e.g., the treatment of wood with preservatives);
(3) Exposures to portland cement; or
(4) Where the employer has objective data demonstrating that a material containing chromium or a specific process, operation, or activity involving chromium cannot release dusts, fumes, or mists of chromium (VI) in concentrations at or above 0.5 mg/m 3 as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) under any expected conditions of use.
Note:Exposures to strontium chromate shall comply with the provisions of Section 5155 in addition to this standard.
(b) Definitions. For the purposes of this section the following definitions apply:
Action level means a concentration of airborne chromium (VI) of 2.5 micrograms per cubic meter of air (2.5 mg/m 3) calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).
Chromium (VI) [hexavalent chromium or Cr(VI)] means chromium with a valence of positive six, in any form and in any compound.
Emergency means any occurrence that results, or is likely to result, in an uncontrolled release of chromium (VI). If an incidental release of chromium (VI) can be controlled at the time of release by employees in the immediate release area, or by maintenance personnel, it is not an emergency.
Employee exposure means the exposure to airborne chromium (VI) that would occur if the employee were not using a respirator.
High efficiency particulate air [HEPA] filter means a filter that is at least 99.97 percent efficient in removing mono dispersed particles of 0.3 micrometers in diameter or larger.
Historical monitoring data means data from chromium (VI) monitoring conducted prior to September 19, 2006, obtained during work operations conducted under workplace conditions closely resembling the processes, types of material, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions in the employer's current operations.
Objective data means information such as air monitoring data from industry-wide surveys or calculations based on the composition or chemical and physical properties of a substance demonstrating the employee exposure to chromium (VI) associated with a particular product or material or a specific process, operation, or activity. The data must reflect workplace conditions closely resembling the processes, types of material, control methods, work practices, and environmental conditions in the employer's current operations.
Physician or other licensed health care professional [PLHCP] is an individual whose legally permitted scope of practice (i.e., license, registration, or certification) allows him or her to independently provide or be delegated the responsibility to provide some or all of the particular health care services required by subsection (i) of this section.
"This section" means this 8359 Chromium (VI) standard.
(c) Permissible exposure limit (PEL). The employer shall ensure that no employee is exposed to an airborne concentration of chromium (VI) in excess of 5 micrograms per cubic meter of air (5 mg/m 3), calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA).
(d) Exposure determination.
(1) General. Each employer who has a workplace or work operation covered by this section shall determine the 8 hour TWA exposure for each employee exposed to chromium (VI). This determination shall be made in accordance with either subsection (d)(2) or subsection (d)(3) of this section.
(2) Scheduled monitoring option.
(A) The employer shall perform initial monitoring to determine the 8 hour TWA exposure for each employee on the basis of a sufficient number of personal breathing zone air samples to accurately characterize full shift exposure on each shift, for each job classification, in each work area. Where an employer does representative sampling instead of sampling all employees in order to meet this requirement, the employer shall sample the employee(s) expected to have the highest chromium (VI) exposures.
(B) If initial monitoring indicates that employee exposures are below the action level, the employer may discontinue monitoring for those employees whose exposures are represented by such monitoring.
(C) If monitoring reveals employee exposures to be at or above the action level, the employer shall perform periodic monitoring at least every six months.
(D) If monitoring reveals employee exposures to be above the PEL, the employer shall perform periodic monitoring at least every three months.
(E) If periodic monitoring indicates that employee exposures are below the action level, and the result is confirmed by the result of another monitoring taken at least seven days later, the employer may discontinue the monitoring for those employees whose exposures are represented by such monitoring.
(F) The employer shall perform additional monitoring when there has been any change in the production process, raw materials, equipment, personnel, work practices, or control methods that may result in new or additional exposures to chromium (VI), or when the employer has any reason to believe that new or additional exposures have occurred.
(3) Performance-oriented option. The employer shall determine the 8 hour TWA exposure for each employee on the basis of any combination of air monitoring data, historical monitoring data, or objective data sufficient to accurately characterize employee exposure to chromium (VI).
(4) Employee notification of determination results.
(A) Where the exposure determination indicates that employee exposure exceeds the PEL, as soon as possible but not more than 5 working days later the employer shall either post the results in an appropriate location that is accessible to all affected employees or shall notify each affected employee individually in writing of the results.
(B) Whenever the exposure determination indicates that employee exposure is above the PEL, the employer shall describe in the written notification the corrective action being taken to reduce employee exposure to or below the PEL.
(5) Accuracy of measurement. Where air monitoring is performed to comply with the requirements of this section, the employer shall use a method of monitoring and analysis that can measure chromium (VI) to within an accuracy of plus or minus 25 percent (+/- 25%) and can produce accurate measurements to within a statistical confidence level of 95 percent for airborne concentrations at or above the action level.
(6) Observation of monitoring.
(A) Where air monitoring is performed to comply with the requirements of this section, the employer shall provide affected employees or their designated representatives an opportunity to observe any monitoring of employee exposure to chromium (VI).
(B) When observation of monitoring requires entry into an area where the use of protective clothing or equipment is required, the employer shall provide the observer with clothing and equipment and shall assure that the observer uses such clothing and equipment and complies with all other applicable safety and health procedures.
(e) Methods of compliance.
(1) Engineering and work practice controls.
(A) Except as permitted in subsection (e)(1)(B) of this section, the employer shall use engineering and work practice controls to reduce and maintain employee exposure to chromium (VI) to or below the PEL unless the employer can demonstrate that such controls are not feasible. Wherever feasible engineering and work practice controls are not sufficient to reduce employee exposure to or below the PEL, the employer shall use them to reduce employee exposure to the lowest levels achievable, and shall supplement them by the use of respiratory protection that complies with the requirements of subsection (f) of this section.
(B) Where the employer can demonstrate that a process or task does not result in any employee exposure to chromium (VI) above the PEL for 30 or more days per year (12 consecutive months), the requirement to implement engineering and work practice controls to achieve the PEL does not apply to that process or task.
(2) Prohibition of rotation. The employer shall not rotate employees to different jobs to achieve compliance with the PEL.
(f) Respiratory protection.
(1) General. The employer shall provide respiratory protection for employees during:
(A) Periods necessary to install or implement feasible engineering and work practice controls;
(B) Work operations, such as maintenance and repair activities, for which engineering and work practice controls are not feasible;
(C) Work operations for which an employer has implemented all feasible engineering and work practice controls and such controls are not sufficient to reduce exposures to or below the PEL;
(D) Work operations where employees are exposed above the PEL for fewer than 30 days per year, and the employer has elected not to implement engineering and work practice controls to achieve the PEL; or
(E) Emergencies.
(2) Respiratory protection program. Where respirator use is required by this section, the employer shall institute a respiratory protection program in accordance with Section 5144.
(g) Protective work clothing and equipment.
(1) Provision and use. Where a hazard is present or is likely to be present from skin or eye contact with chromium (VI), the employer shall provide appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment at no cost to employees, and shall ensure that employees use such clothing and equipment.
(2) Removal and storage.
(A) The employer shall ensure that employees remove all protective clothing and equipment contaminated with chromium (VI) at the end of the work shift or at the completion of their tasks involving chromium (VI) exposure, whichever comes first.
(B) The employer shall ensure that no employee removes chromium (VI)- contaminated protective clothing or equipment from the workplace, except for those employees whose job it is to launder, clean, maintain, or dispose of such clothing or equipment.
(C) When contaminated protective clothing or equipment is removed for laundering, cleaning, maintenance, or disposal, the employer shall ensure that it is stored and transported in sealed, impermeable bags or other closed, impermeable containers.
(D) Bags or containers of contaminated protective clothing or equipment that are removed from change rooms for laundering, cleaning, maintenance, or disposal shall be labeled in accordance with the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard, Section 5194.
(3) Cleaning and replacement.
(A) The employer shall clean, launder, repair and replace all protective clothing and equipment required by this section as needed to maintain its effectiveness.
(B) The employer shall prohibit the removal of chromium (VI) from protective clothing and equipment by blowing, shaking, or any other means that disperses chromium (VI) into the air or onto an employee's body.
(C) The employer shall inform any person who launders or cleans protective clothing or equipment contaminated with chromium (VI) of the potentially harmful effects of exposure to chromium (VI) and that the clothing and equipment should be laundered or cleaned in a manner that minimizes skin or eye contact with chromium (VI) and effectively prevents the release of airborne chromium (VI) in excess of the PEL.
(h) Hygiene areas and practices.
(1) General. Where protective clothing and equipment is required, the employer shall provide change rooms in conformance with Section 3367. Where skin contact with chromium (VI) occurs, the employer shall provide washing facilities in conformance with Section 8397.4. Eating and drinking areas provided by the employer shall be in conformance with Section 8397.4.
(2) Change rooms. The employer shall assure that change rooms are equipped with separate storage facilities for protective clothing and equipment and for street clothes, and that these facilities prevent cross-contamination.
(3) Washing facilities.
(A) The employer shall provide readily accessible washing facilities capable of removing chromium (VI) from the skin, and shall ensure that affected employees use these facilities when necessary.
(B) The employer shall ensure that employees who have skin contact with chromium (VI) wash their hands and faces at the end of the work shift and prior to eating, drinking, smoking, chewing tobacco or gum, applying cosmetics, or using the toilet.
(4) Eating and drinking areas.
(A) Whenever the employer allows employees to consume food or beverages at a worksite where chromium (VI) is present, the employer shall ensure that eating and drinking areas and surfaces are maintained as free as practicable of chromium (VI).
(B) The employer shall ensure that employees do not enter eating and drinking areas with protective work clothing or equipment unless surface chromium (VI) has been removed from the clothing and equipment by methods that do not disperse chromium (VI) into the air or onto an employee's body.
(5) Prohibited activities. The employer shall ensure that employees do not eat, drink, smoke, chew tobacco or gum, or apply cosmetics in areas where skin or eye contact with chromium (VI) occurs; or carry the products associated with these activities, or store such products in these areas.
(i) Medical surveillance.
(1). General.
(A) The employer shall make medical surveillance available at no cost to the employee, and at a reasonable time and place, for all employees:
1. Who are or may be occupationally exposed to chromium (VI) at or above the action level for 30 or more days a year;
2. Experiencing signs or symptoms of the adverse health effects associated with chromium (VI) exposure; or
3. Exposed in an emergency.
(B) The employer shall assure that all medical examinations and procedures required by this section are performed by or under the supervision of a PLHCP.
(2) Frequency. The employer shall provide a medical examination:
(A) Within 30 days after initial assignment, unless the employee has received a chromium (VI) related medical examination that meets the requirements of this subsection within the last twelve months;
(B) Annually;
(C) Within 30 days after a PLHCP's written medical opinion recommends an additional examination;
(D) Whenever an employee shows signs or symptoms of the adverse health effects associated with chromium (VI) exposure;
(E) Within 30 days after exposure during an emergency which results in an uncontrolled release of chromium (VI); or
(F) At the termination of employment, unless the last examination that satisfied the requirements of subsection (i) of this section was less than six months prior to the date of termination.
(3) Contents of examination. A medical examination consists of:
(A) A medical and work history, with emphasis on: past, present, and anticipated future exposure to chromium (VI); any history of respiratory system dysfunction; any history of asthma, dermatitis, skin ulceration, or nasal septum perforation; and smoking status and history;
(B) A physical examination of the skin and respiratory tract; and
(C) Any additional tests deemed appropriate by the examining PLHCP.
(4) Information provided to the PLHCP. The employer shall ensure that the examining PLHCP has a copy of this standard, and shall provide the following information:
(A) A description of the affected employee's former, current, and anticipated duties as they relate to the employee's occupational exposure to chromium (VI);
(B) The employee's former, current, and anticipated levels of occupational exposure to chromium (VI);
(C) A description of any personal protective equipment used or to be used by the employee, including when and for how long the employee has used that equipment; and
(D) Information from records of employment-related medical examinations previously provided to the affected employee, currently within the control of the employer.
(5) PLHCP's written medical opinion.
(A) The employer shall obtain a written medical opinion from the PLHCP, within 30 days for each medical examination performed on each employee, which contains:
1. The PLHCP's opinion as to whether the employee has any detected medical condition(s) that would place the employee at increased risk of material impairment to health from further exposure to chromium (VI);
2. Any recommended limitations upon the employee's exposure to chromium (VI) or upon the use of personal protective equipment such as respirators;
3. A statement that the PLHCP has explained to the employee the results of the medical examination, including any medical conditions related to chromium (VI) exposure that require further evaluation or treatment, and any special provisions for use of protective clothing or equipment.
(B) The PLHCP shall not reveal to the employer specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure to chromium (VI).
(C) The employer shall provide a copy of the PLHCP's written medical opinion to the examined employee within two weeks after receiving it.
(j) Communication of chromium (VI) hazards to employees.
(1) General. In addition to the requirements of the Hazard Communication Standard, Section 5194, employers shall comply with the following requirements.
(2) Employee information and training.
(A) The employer shall ensure that each employee can demonstrate knowledge of at least the following:
1 The contents of this section; and
2. The purpose and a description of the medical surveillance program required by subsection (i) of this section.
(B) The employer shall make a copy of this section readily available without cost to all affected employees.
(k) Recordkeeping.
(1) Air monitoring data.
(A) The employer shall maintain an accurate record of all air monitoring conducted to comply with the requirements of this section.
(B) This record shall include at least the following information:
1. The date of measurement for each sample taken;
2. The operation involving exposure to chromium (VI) that is being monitored;
3. Sampling and analytical methods used and evidence of their accuracy;
4. Number, duration, and the results of samples taken;
5. Type of personal protective equipment, such as respirators worn; and
6. Name, social security number, and job classification of all employees represented by the monitoring, indicating which employees were actually monitored.
(C) The employer shall ensure that exposure records are maintained and made available in accordance with Section 3204.
(2) Historical monitoring data.
(A) Where the employer has relied on historical monitoring data to determine exposure to chromium (VI), the employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record of the historical monitoring data relied upon.
(B) The record shall include information that reflects the following conditions:
1. The data were collected using methods that meet the accuracy requirements of subsection (d)(5) of this section;
2. The processes and work practices that were in use when the historical monitoring data were obtained are essentially the same as those to be used during the job for which exposure is being determined;
3. The characteristics of the chromium (VI) containing material being handled when the historical monitoring data were obtained are the same as those on the job for which exposure is being determined;
4. Environmental conditions prevailing when the historical monitoring data were obtained are the same as those on the job for which exposure is being determined; and
5. Other data relevant to the operations, materials, processing, or employee exposures covered by the exception.
(C) The employer shall ensure that historical exposure records are maintained and made available in accordance with Section 3204.
(3) Objective data.
(A) The employer shall maintain an accurate record of all objective data relied upon to comply with the requirements of this section.
(B) This record shall include at least the following information:
1. The chromium containing material in question;
2. The source of the objective data;
3. The testing protocol and results of testing, or analysis of the material for the release of chromium (VI);
4. A description of the process, operation, or activity and how the data support the determination; and
5. Other data relevant to the process, operation, activity, material, or employee exposures.
(C) The employer shall ensure that objective data are maintained and made available in accordance with Section 3204.
(4) Medical surveillance.
(A) The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate record for each employee covered by medical surveillance under subsection (i) of this section.
(B) The record shall include the following information about the employee:
1. Name and social security number;
2. A copy of the PLHCP's written opinions;
3. A copy of the information provided to the PLHCP as required by subsection (i)(4) of this section.
(C) The employer shall ensure that medical records are maintained and made available in accordance with Section 3204.
(l) Dates.
(1) For employers with 20 or more employees, all obligations of this section, except engineering controls required by subsection (e) of this section, commence November 27, 2006.
(2) For employers with 19 or fewer employees, all obligations of this section, except engineering controls required by subsection (e) of this section, commence May 30, 2007.
(3) For all employers, engineering controls required by subsection (e) of this section shall be implemented no later than May 31, 2010.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Sections 142.3, 9004(d), 9009, 9020, 9031 and 9040, Labor Code.
s 8360. Scaffolds and Staging.
(a) The provisions in the Construction Safety Orders concerning scaffolds shall apply to all conditions and exposures not specifically covered by these orders.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 8361. Lumber.
All lumber used for the construction of scaffolding and staging shall be the equivalent of "Selected Lumber" and/or "Structural Plank" as defined in Section 1504 of the Construction Safety Orders. It shall also be free from damage that affects its strength.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 8362. Building Ways, Scaffolding, and Staging.
(a)(1) Scaffolding shall be erected in bents, set not over 12 feet apart, center to center, parallel with the building ways. The bents shall consist of uprights adequately bolted together in pairs, with suitable sized spacers and set from 3 feet to 5 feet apart, center to center, transverse with the building ways.
(2) Uprights less than 30 feet in length shall be of not less than 3-inch by 6- inch lumber or stock of equivalent strength and rigidity. Uprights 30 feet or over in length shall be of not less than 3-inch by 8-inch lumber.
(3) Scaffolding shall be adequately braced both transversely and longitudinally. Bracing shall be of not less than 1-inch by 8-inch lumber or stock of equivalent strength and rigidity.
(4) The feet of the uprights shall be securely fastened to the dock or the flooring of the building ways by means of suitable connections.
(b) Spalls or needle beams shall be of not less than 3-inch by 8-inch lumber, and shall not overhang more than 5 feet unless additional support is provided.
(c) Spall pins shall be of not less than three-fourths-inch round steel, and shall project not less than 2 inches beyond the uprights at each end. The diameter of the holes for the spall pins when bored shall not exceed the diameter of the spall pins by more than one-sixteenth inch (1/16 ").
(d)(1) Staging shall be not less than two 10-inch structural planks in width except in such cases as the structure of the vessel or in the case of trestle ladder scaffolds, the width of the trestle ladders makes it impossible. In cases where material or equipment is on the staging or more than one employee is working, it shall be wide enough to provide a clear passageway where required at least 20 inches wide throughout the work area.
(2) Planks shall be laid edge to edge. Where due to warping the space between the planks exceeds 1-inch, the planks shall be rearranged to reduce such space or they will be withdrawn from staging use. The safe concentrated center loads for scaffold plank shown in the table below shall not be exceeded.
SAFE CONCENTRATED CENTER LOADS (Lbs.) FOR SCAFFOLD PLANK OF 1,900 PSI FIBER
STRESS
(e) Staging shall not clear the hulls by a distance of more than 8 inches except at the bow and stern where the converging hull lines prohibit. In all cases, however, the space between hull and staging shall be held to a minimum.
(f) Staging shall be supported by at least 3 spalls whenever possible. Planks shall overlap the spalls by 2 feet or be secured to the spalls.
(g) Staging at the bow and stern shall be so arranged that the outboard plank of the lower platform shall extend under the inboard plank of the upper platform immediately above.
(h) Standard guardrails shall be installed on the open sides and ends of all staging 5 feet or more in elevation above the dock or building ways. Guardrails shall be attached securely to the scaffolding upright or horse. The guardrails shall be in the same vertical plane as the outside edge of the outboard staging planks and the toeboards, where required, shall be installed so that tools or material cannot make their way between them and the staging planks.
(i) Where staging passes over established aisles, runways, or passageways, toeboards shall be installed on the side of such staging farthest from the hull. Toeboards shall be of not less than 1-inch by 4-inch lumber or stock of equivalent strength and rigidity.
(j) Independent Wood Pole Scaffolds.
(1) Ribbons shall extend over three consecutive uprights and shall overlap the uprights at each end by not less than 4 inches. They shall be left in position to brace the uprights as the platform is raised with the progress of the work. Ribbons shall be level and shall be securely nailed or bolted to each upright and shall be placed against the inside face of each upright.
(2) Diagonal sway bracing not less than 1 x 6-inch lumber or equivalent, shall be provided between the parallel poles. Cross bracing shall be provided between the inner and outer poles or from the outer poles to the ground.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 8363. Deck Staging, Prefabrication Staging, and Other Miscellaneous Exterior Built-Up Staging.
Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.
s 8364. Built-Up Staging. Painters' Exterior Suspended Staging (for use of painters only).
(a) Scaffold platforms shall be at least 14 inches wide, consisting of a stage ladder, as specified in the following table: two, 2x10-inch or 2x12-inch "Structural Planks" edge to edge or one 2x14-inch dressed "Structural Plank"; or a beam-type platform consisting of longitudinal side stringers with cross beams set on edge and spaced not more than 4 feet apart on which longitudinal platform planks are laid, free from damage affecting their strength are laid. Scaffolds shall be limited to a maximum width of 20 inches for the ladder-type (between side rails), and 24 inches for the plank and beam-types. The span between stirrups, hangers or falls shall not be more than 10 feet on plank-type platforms, and not more than 16 feet on beam-type platforms. Where double planks are used side by side on suspended scaffolds, as specified above, they shall be firmly cleated together so as to act as a unit.
(b)(1) Each end of the scaffold platform shall be supported by a wrought iron or mild steel stirrup or hangar, which in turn is supported by the suspension ropes.
(2) Stirrups shall be constructed so as to be equivalent in strength to wrought iron three-fourths inches in diameter.
(3) The stirrups shall be formed with a horizontal bottom member to support the platform, shall be provided with means to support the guardrail and midrail, and shall have a loop or eye at the top for securing the supporting hook on the block.
(c)(1) The staging shall be fastened to prevent abnormal sway, and all parts of such staging shall be of sufficient strength to safely support all anticipated loads.
(2) Only one employee shall be allowed to each fall or hanger. Ordinary extension ladders shall not be used as stage ladders. The overhang of the scaffold staging shall be not less than 6 inches nor more than 18 inches.
(d) Swinging or Stage Ladders:
SPECIFICATIONS FOR SIDE RAILS OF LADDERS
CROSS SECTION (IN INCHES)
____________________________
LENGTH IN FEET AT ENDS AT CENTER
15............ 1 7/8 x 2 3/4 1 7/8 x 3 3/4
16............ 1 7/8 x 2 3/4 1 7/8 x 3 3/4
18............ 1 7/8 x 3 1 7/8 x 4
20............ 1 7/8 x 3 1 7/8 x 4
24............ 1 7/8 x 3 1 7/8 x 4 1/2
Swinging or stage ladders used for suspended staging shall be reinforced with five-sixteenths-inch rods spaced at least every 5 feet to prevent side rails from spreading. The rungs shall be of straight-grained oak, ash, or hickory, not less than 1 1/8 inches diameter, with 7/8-inch tenons mortised into the side rails not less than 7/8-inch and shall be spaced no more than 18 inches on centers.
(e) Beam-type Platforms:
(1) The side stringers an d cross beams shall be of sound, straight-grained lumber, free from knots, and of not less than 2- x 6-inch lumber, set on edge.
(2) The stringers shall be supported on stirrups to which they shall be bolted by U-bolts passing around the stirrups and bolted through the stringers with nuts drawn up tight on the inside face.
(3) The ends of the stringers shall extend beyond the stirrups not less than 6 inches nor more than 12 inches at each end of the platform.
(4) The platform shall be formed of boards not less than 7/8-inch in thickness by not less than 6 inches in width, nailed tightly together, and extending to the outside face of the stringers, and it shall be supported on cross beams which are securely nailed to the stringers.
(5) The ends of all platform boards shall rest on the top of the cross beams, shall be securely nailed, and at no intermediate points in the length of the platform shall there be any cantilever ends.
(f) Safety lines of at least five-eighths-inch diameter manila or three-fourths-inch sisal rope [FNa1] with a figure 8 knot every 6 feet, hanging from above and securely tied, shall be provided between each pair of hangers or falls. Such lines shall reach to a point at least 6 feet below the lowest position at which the staging can be used. One such line shall be provided for each employee.
(g) The ropes supporting a swinging scaffold shall be equivalent in strength to first-grade 3/4-inch diameter manila rope properly rigged into a set of standard 6-inch blocks consisting of at least one double and one single block. The rope shall be inspected before being used on each job to ascertain whether it is sound and free from flaws or deterioration from contact with any solution containing chemicals.
(h) The extension from the top block to the support of rope falls supporting scaffolds or boatswains' chairs shall be wire rope at least one-half inch in diameter or metal of equivalent strength, but in no case shall it be of structural reinforcing steel.
(i) When substances injurious to fiber rope are used, every employee on the staging shall be required to wear a safety belt with lanyard securely attached to a life line by a mechanical safety device or a sliding hitch. (continued)