Guidance UpdateLiveGuidance Update
OSHA/NIOSH jointly updated Hazard Alert on worker exposure to silica during countertop manufacturing, finishing, and installation (NIOSH Pub. 2026-101), superseding 2015-106
NIOSHNational Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)US
Announced
Feb 26, 2026
Description
NIOSH and OSHA jointly issued an updated Hazard Alert (DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2026-101) addressing respirable crystalline silica exposure risks during stone countertop manufacturing/fabrication/finishing/installation. The publication explicitly supersedes NIOSH Pub. 2015-106 and reiterates OSHA-aligned prevention expectations (e.g., engineering/work practice controls, limiting dry cutting/cleaning practices, respiratory protection program considerations, and medical surveillance trigger summaries under OSHA silica standards). Compliance teams should review and align internal EHS procedures, training content, and exposure-control practices for countertop operations with the updated Hazard Alert recommendations and referenced OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.1053 and 29 CFR 1926.1153).