OSHA and the American Foundry
Society (AFS) recently renewed their alliance, according to a recent agency
press release. The organizations will continue their stated goal of providing
safety and health information related to personal protective equipment, heat
stress, and reducing and preventing exposure to silica among employees in the
metalcasting industry.
Through the alliance, AFS
developed a manual titledControl of Silica Exposure in Foundriesthat provides information to help control the potential hazards of respirable
crystalline silica. The society also developed theGuide for the
Selection and Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Special Clothing for
Foundry Operationsto help reduce the risks of exposure to foundry
hazards.
OSHA and AFS representatives spoke at conferences and
meetings including the AFS 19th Environmental Health and Safety Conference and
the 111th Metalcasting Congress. AFS representatives continue to serve on the
editorial boards of OSHA safety and health topics pages regarding control of
hazardous energy (lockout/tagout); heat stress; lead; powered industrial
trucks; silica, crystalline; and ventilation.
OSHA, American Foundry Society Renew Alliance (4/22)