WASHINGTON — The Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced in March 2026 that it would increase enforcement of its crystalline silica standard in the restoration and construction industries, following a surge in silicosis diagnoses among workers who cut, grind, or sand concrete, masonry, and tile during restoration projects.
Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in concrete, brick, mortar, and stone. When these materials are cut or ground, fine silica dust is released that can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause silicosis — an incurable and potentially fatal lung disease — as well as lung cancer and kidney disease.
OSHA's silica standard, which took effect for the construction industry in 2017, requires employers to limit workers' exposure to silica dust through engineering controls such as wet cutting and vacuum systems, provide respiratory protection when engineering controls are not sufficient, and offer medical surveillance to workers with significant silica exposure.
The agency's enforcement initiative will focus on restoration contractors performing concrete cutting, tile removal, and masonry work in water-damaged and fire-damaged structures, where silica-containing materials are frequently disturbed during remediation.
OSHA inspectors will conduct targeted inspections at restoration job sites in high-risk regions and will issue citations and penalties for violations of the silica standard. The agency is also developing industry-specific compliance guidance for restoration contractors.
