Dan OMalley

Introduction Because of its properties, asbestos was a widely used raw material, primarily in the commercial building and automotive industries.  In the commercial building industry, asbestos could be found in vinyl floor tile and the associated mastic, thermal system insulation, roofing materials, ceiling and wall plasters, and fireproofing.  In the automotive industry, asbestos was commonly …

Disturbing Asbestos Containing Materials on Bridge Structures Read More »

Many facility owners, particularly public agencies, have a standard specification for lead paint removal projects that has stood the test of time, and that likely went through a rigorous review process to get to the final version of the published document.  Whether it’s for a bridge or a water tank, the owner has likely used …

Making a Case for Environmental, Health & Safety Special Provisions Read More »

OSHA issued its final rule for Confined Spaces in Construction on May 5, 2015.  The rule is intended to provide construction workers with protection similar to that which manufacturing and general industry workers have had for years, with some differences tailored to the construction industry. The rule takes effect on August 3, 2015 but full …

Confined Spaces in Construction- Highlights of the New Rule Read More »

OSHA recently published a proposed regulation… to limit worker exposure to crystalline silica.  According to OSHA, the proposed rule would save nearly 700 lives per year and prevent 1,600 new cases of deadly silicosis annually.  The proposed standard includes the following provisions: Establishes an Action Level of  25 μg/m3 (micrograms of silica per cubic meter …

Effect of OSHA’s Proposed Crystalline Silica Rule On Hydraulic Fracturing, Industrial Painting, Construction, and Manufacturing Operations Read More »