Because of the dangers associated with exposure to beryllium,
various agencies restrict beryllium levels in the workplace. The
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) originally
recommended
a standard of not more than 0.5 micrograms of beryllium per cubic
meter of workroom air during an 8–hour shift. In a recent
rule that recognizes the extreme hazards posed by beryllium, the
Department
of Energy (DOE) has set an even lower level of 0.2 micrograms per
cubic meter during an 8-hour shift for DOE workers and federal contractors
(Final
rule, 10 CFR 850, Dec. 8, 1999). The Occupational
Safety and Health Administrations beryllium limit for other workers
is 2.0 micrograms per cubic meter during an 8–hour shift–an
amount 10 times higher than the DOE level.
Despite these beryllium restrictions, there is no known safe
level of exposure. Even minimal exposure to beryllium may cause
chronic beryllium disease
and other health problems in susceptible individuals (National
Jewish Medical News).
Because small amounts of beryllium dust or fumes are so toxic,
good safety practices require very strict controls regarding the
use of beryllium. Adequate ventilation and exhaust systems,
routine air monitoring, protective clothing, and approved
respirators can minimize beryllium exposure. Change rooms,
restricted areas, and decontamination areas can limit the
spread of beryllium throughout the workplace or into the worker’s
home environment.
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