Construction

OSHA PEL 50 µg/m³ TWA. Table 1 of 29 CFR 1926.1153 specifies engineering controls for 18 equipment categories. Exposure monitoring required when employers cannot fully implement Table 1 controls. Written exposure control plans mandatory. Medical surveillance for workers exposed above action level (25 µg/m³) for 30+ days/year.

Lead paint disturbance during renovation and demolition of pre-1978 buildings. OSHA lead in construction standard 29 CFR 1926.62. PEL 50 µg/m³ TWA, action level 30 µg/m³. Trigger tasks include torch cutting painted steel, abrasive blasting painted surfaces, and manual demolition.

Pre-1981 building materials disturbed during renovation and demolition. OSHA asbestos standards 29 CFR 1926.1101. PEL 0.1 f/cc TWA. Building surveys, air monitoring during abatement, and clearance testing. EPA AHERA requirements for school buildings.

Power tools, concrete saws, jackhammers, pile driving. OSHA 29 CFR 1926.52 construction noise standards. Feasible engineering and administrative controls required before reliance on hearing protection.

Typical Worker Groups

Common similar exposure groups (SEGs) assessed in this industry.

Regulatory Context

Construction work is regulated under OSHA 29 CFR 1926. The silica rule (1926.1153), lead standard (1926.62), and asbestos standard (1926.1101) each have specific exposure monitoring, medical surveillance, and written program requirements. Cal/OSHA in California has more stringent PELs for several construction-related substances. EPA requirements (AHERA, RRP rule) add additional obligations for asbestos and lead in certain buildings. OSHA's engineered stone focused inspection initiative has conducted 371 inspections nationwide since September 2023, with 20% of samples exceeding the PEL. Cal/OSHA Section 5204, effective early 2025, is substantially stricter than the federal standard.