In the written exposure control plan, what level of detail is required for the description of workplace tasks that involve silica exposures?

The written exposure control plan must describe the tasks that involve silica exposures in sufficient detail to enable the employer and employees to consistently identify and control silica- related hazards. See 29 C.F.R. § 1926.1153(g)(1)(i); 81 Fed. Reg. at 16800-1. Thus, for example, if the materials being disturbed or the conditions under which the tasks are performed are relevant to the level of exposure related to a particular task, that information must be included (e.g., using a stationery saw outdoors to cut concrete). The standard permits construction employers to develop a single comprehensive plan that includes all of the tasks the employer will perform on all of its worksites. However, using a broad term that could describe multiple tasks, such as “construction” or “demolition,” would not be sufficiently descriptive.

Note that in addition to describing the silica-generating tasks, the exposure control plan must also include a description of the engineering controls, work practices, and respiratory protection used to limit exposure to respirable crystalline silica. See 29 C.F.R. § 1926.1153(g)(1)(ii).