In its release of the silica exposure safety card (opposite page), the National Association of Home Builders reminded members of how the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's (OSHA) established this year a National Emphasis Program (NEP) to reduce employee exposure to crystalline silica. Under the program, OSHA's field staff inspection efforts will target work sites likely to create high silica exposure — including those in home building.

The safety card on silica is the first in a series of cards being made available by NAHB to provide employers and their workers with safety and health information on emerging topics. NAHB works with OSHA to provide the residential construction industry with information, guidance and access to training resources to help them protect employees' health and safety.

Through BuilderBooks, NAHB offers a comprehensive set of resources that are geared towards helping companies improve the safety awareness and practices of their employees. All NAHB safety resources are available through BuilderBooks, www.builderbooks.com/safety. Additional information on NAHB safety resources can be obtained from Kevin Cannon, 800/368-5242 ×8590.