OSHA does require safety training when workers are subject to silica exposure. The training is generally task-specific and is subject to task variables including, silica exposure levels, location of worksite, control methods available, PPE etc. Normal training courses for construction activities generally range from two to six hours. The following are topics generally included in the training:

Silica Hazard Recognition and Health Effects
The ability to recognize when silica dust may be generated and plan ahead to eliminate or control the dust at the source. Awareness and planning are keys to prevention of silicosis.

Personal Hygiene
Knowing when and how to wear disposable or washable
protective clothes at the worksite to prevent contamination of
cars, homes, and other work areas. Also establishing areas for
eating, drinking and taking breaks away from exposures.

Air Monitoring
The importance of air monitoring and how to measure worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica and to select appropriate engineering controls and respiratory protection.

 
  Control Methods
  Engineering practices such as using non-silica based materials
  Safe work practices including wet cutting procedures
  Administrative actions such as worker rotation

  PPE
  The importance of using adequate respiratory protection when source  
  controls cannot keep silica exposures below the PEL.

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