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OSHA issues final rule updating PPE standards

The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has published in the Federal Register a final rule revising the personal protective equipment (PPE) sections of its general industry, shipyard employment, longshoring, and marine terminals standards concerning requirements for eye- and face-protective devices and head and foot protection.

OSHA is updating the references in its regulations to reflect more recent editions of the applicable national consensus standards that incorporate advances in technology. OSHA requires that PPE be safely designed and constructed for the tasks performed.

Amendments to the PPE standards include a requirement that filter lenses and plates in eye-protective equipment meet a test for transmission of radiant energy, such as light or infrared.

The final rule becomes effective Oct. 9.