05/28/2025

OAIMA Silica Workshop Prepares Members for Upcoming Silica Regulations.

The OAIMA Safety Committee and its members recently hosted a workshop on the upcoming MSHA Silica Rules.  These rules scheduled to become effective in April of 2026, require a great deal of preparation prior to the effective date.  This workshop provided updates on the regulation, legal challenges, recent actions at the national level and most importantly, tips on how our members can ensure compliance with these complicated and comprehensive rules.

Special thanks to our knowledgeable speakers for sharing their expertise during this valuable workshop:

• Nick Scala – Conn Maciel Carey, LLP
• Jenifer Padgett – MSHA Safety Services
• Martin Dieumegarde- Dust Solutions
• Beverly Sedon – One Atlas
• Arthur Wolfson – Fisher & Phillips, LLP.
• Bob Robenalt – Fisher & Phillips, LLP.

Also in attendance were our supporting vendors:

• Atlas Technical Consultants, LLC
• Benetech
• The CAM Company
• MSHA Safety Service
• Process Machinery, Inc.
• Rock Machinery

Nick Scala speaks on the latest from MSHA and D.C. and Medical Surveillance

Arthur Wolfson talks about how to interact with MSHA inspectors and how to be prepared for inspections.

Jenifer Padgett demonstrates calibration, monitoring and sample handling.

Beverly Sedon talks about exposure limits and calculations.

Martin Dieumegarde explains the benefits and options of Engineering Controls.

Participants receive Hands-On instructions on the use of pumps and respirators.