Cost to small businesses from silica rule is raised by progressive group

The silica-dust rule from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration could put small businesses at a disadvantage on the cost of complying with the mandate, according to the Center for Progressive Reform.

Initial figures from OSHA indicate that small businesses may shoulder two-thirds of the cost, according to Matt Shudtz, an analyst with the group.

The regulations would set new worker exposure limits for silica, which has been linked to health problems and is present at shipyards and construction sites.

(http://thehill.com/regulation/pending-regs/329205-progressive-group-issues-pre-emptive-strike-on-silica-rules-cost)