On June 22, 2009 OSHA Region IV initiated a Regional Emphasis Program (REP) focusing on health hazards related to operations involving scrap and waste materials, including recycling/reclaim facilities. Area offices in Region IV will be conducting inspections of workplaces that have been identified as having operations and possible worker exposure to common health hazards found in this industry. The most common causes of illnesses are poisoning (e.g., lead or cadmium poisoning), disorders associated with repeated trauma, high levels of noise, skin diseases or disorders, and respiratory conditions due to inhalation of, or contact with, toxic agents.

The primary industry being targeted is SIC Code 5093 / NAICS 423930 – Scrap and Waste Material Recyclers and Processors.

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