June 08, 2004 12:59 PM CDT

MCAA Hosts Coalition Meeting to Develop Work Practice For Silica

By Michael Adelizzi

The Mason Contractors Association of America is spearheading a coalition to develop an industry standard work practice for silica. The MCAA is hosting a meeting and has invited representatives from the Home Builders Association, the AGC, the Associated Builders and Contractors, the Concrete Contractors Association, the Coring and Sawing Contractors Association as well as other masonry industry associations to begin the development of an industry sponsored work practice for silica which will be recognized by OSHA. This new work practice will eliminate the need for the radical and devastating standard proposed by OSHA.

"This effort is a result of our meeting with OSHA last month where the idea of industry developing a work practice was favorably accepted by representative from OSHA," said MCAA Executive Director Mike Adelizzi. "We believe that industry can develop a more effective standard that won't kill our industry and one that OSHA can accept. Their willingness to work with us to develop this was extremely important." The first coalition meeting is scheduled for June 22 in Washington.

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About the Author

Michael Adelizzi was the Executive Director of the Mason Contractors Association of America.