NIOSH is accepting public comment from March 8 to May 8 on a draft document on beryllium in the workplace.

Exposure to the lightweight metal can cause a granulomatous lung condition called chronic beryllium disease, NIOSH said. The NIOSH Alert document, “Preventing Chronic Beryllium Disease and Beryllium Sensitization,” describes the nature of the lung disease and other health effects that can occur from exposure to beryllium and beryllium-containing materials. The draft document recommends steps companies and workers should take to minimize the health risk to workers.

This guidance document does not have the force and effect of law.

Comments regarding this draft publication can be submitted athttp://www.cdc.gov/niosh/review/public/120/comments.html.