Respirable Crystalline Silica Testing
Midwest Industrial Hygiene Services provides respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure testing for construction and general industry. All work is performed by a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) using recognized methods and aligned with OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1153 and 1910.1053 requirements.
Based in South Dakota, Midwest Industrial Hygiene Services provides silica exposure testing across the Midwest. We help organizations evaluate worker exposure, document compliance, and implement practical controls to reduce risk
OSHA Silica Standard Requirements
OSHA’s silica standards apply to workplaces where employee exposure may exceed the action level of 25 µg/m³ (8-hour TWA). The permissible exposure limit (PEL) is 50 µg/m³ over the same period.
Employers are required to:
- Conduct exposure assessments when exposure is uncertain
- Implement a written exposure control plan
- Establish appropriate controls and respiratory protection
- Maintain documentation for compliance
Failure to comply can result in significant OSHA citations and penalties.
Services for Respirable Crystalline Silica Testing
We assist organizations with:
- Respirable crystalline silica exposure monitoring (full-shift and task-based)
- Sampling using NIOSH 0600 and 7500 methods
- OSHA compliance support and documentation
- Written exposure control plans
- Respiratory protection program development and training
- Program audits to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement
Contact Midwest Industrial Hygiene Services
Download our Free Respirable Crystalline Silica Compliance Flow Chart
Frequently Asked Questions
When is OSHA silica testing required?
OSHA silica exposure testing may be required when employee exposure could exceed the action level during cutting, grinding, drilling, or handling silica-containing materials
What industries require respirable crystalline silica monitoring?
Construction, manufacturing, mining, foundries, countertop fabrication, and masonry operations commonly require silica exposure assessments.
What is the OSHA silica standard?
OSHA regulates respirable crystalline silica under 29 CFR 1926.1153 for construction and 29 CFR 1910.1053 for general industry.