Additionally, OSHA is considering revisions to broaden the circumstances under which employers would be permitted to comply with the silica standard for construction.

OSHA cited the company for similar violations in 2017 and 2018, and has placed the company in its Severe Violator Enforcement Program.

Although the construction industry is currently exempt from the proposed DOL rule, MCAA is concerned that the exemption may not be permanent.

Agency says company subjected employees to hostile and segregated working environment as well as retaliation.

The measure would require employers to give workers paid breaks in cool spaces, access to water and training on how to respond to symptoms of heat illness.

The plumbers were using a gasoline-powered saw to cut through concrete when they were overcome by carbon monoxide gas emitted from the equipment, causing one of the workers to lose consciousness. 

The proposal is subject to a 60-day public comment period, after which the department can issue the final rule, which could occur as soon as this fall.

Order allows the board to continue its operations through May 31, 2021, giving the 87th legislature time to address the matter. 

Texas’ state plumbing code is currently on track to cease to exist on Sept. 1, while the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners will have a “wind down” period that has it wrapping up operations by September 2020.

Concerned plumbers want governor to call for a special session to implement state plumbing regulation before the Texas State Board of Plumbing Examiners is abolished.