Concrete Home Building Council - 10/21/2004 (Plain Text Version)

CHBC Chairman
Michael Weber

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In this issue:
Markets Grow for Architectural and Decorative Concrete
Concrete Builder Profile: Eggert Construction LLC
Retaining Walls Add Visual Appeal to Landscaping
Innovative Precast Technology: High Tech, High Strength ... and Low Weight
Business Opportunities in Mexico
NAHB Board Passes Hexavalent Chromium Resolution
Ivan Huffed and Puffed ... and Concrete Won
Look Out For Concrete at IBS
Concrete Briefs . . .

NAHB Board Passes Hexavalent Chromium Resolution

The Board approved a total of 16 resolutions this time, including nine that were developed by our HUD Task Force. Resolution 15 concerned portland cement and hexavalent chromium.

Resolution No: 15

Date: Oct. 1, 2004
City: Columbus, OH

NAHB Resolution
Title: Hexavalent Chromium
Original Sponsor: Construction Safety and Health Committee

WHEREAS, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has been sued and forced by the U.S. Court of Appeals to develop a proposed rule for hexavalent chromium by Oct. 4, 2004 and a final standard by Jan. 18, 2006;

WHEREAS, manufacturers have indicated that trace amounts of hexavalent chromium compounds are found in masonry mortars and Portland Cement;

WHEREAS, the manufacturers of Portland Cement have stated that exposure to hexavalent chromium from Portland Cement is shown to be negligible;

WHEREAS, research has shown that the factors found responsible for the irritant nature of wet cement are its alkalinity and abrasiveness, not hexavalent chromium; and

WHEREAS, current regulations already require personal protective equipment for handling wet cement;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Association of Home Builders urge the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to exclude Portland Cement from the proposed hexavalent chromium rulemaking.

Board of Directors Action: Approved
Joint Executive/Resolutions Committee Action:  Recommends Approval
Resolutions Committee Action:  Recommends Approval
Construction Safety and Health Committee Action:  Recommends Approval

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