1990.111(a) This part establishes the criteria and procedures under which substances will be regulated by OSHA as
potential occupational carcinogens. Although the conclusive identification of "carcinogens" is a complex matter "on the frontiers of science," (IUD v.
Hodgson 499 F. 2d 467, 474 (D.C. Cir. 1974)), responsible health regulatory policy requires that criteria should be specified for the identification
of substances which should be regulated as posing potential cancer risks to workers.
1990.111(b) The criteria established by this part are based on an extensive review of scientific data and opinions.
The part provides for amending these criteria in light of new scientific developments. Decisions as to whether any particular substance meets the
criteria or not will be consistent with the policies and procedures established by this part and will be based upon scientific evaluation of the
evidence on that substance.
..1990.111(c)
1990.111(c) This part applies to individual substances, groups of substances, or combinations or mixtures of
substances which may be found in workplaces in the United States. In individual rulemaking proceedings under this part, the identity and range of
substances and mixtures to be covered by the standard will be specified and the appropriateness of applying the available evidence to the range of
substances and mixtures proposed for regulation will be subject to scientific and policy review.
1990.111(d) Potential occupational carcinogens will be identified and classified on the basis of human
epidemiological studies and/or experimental carcinogenesis bioassays in mammals. Positive results in short term tests will also be used as concordant
evidence.
1990.111(e) Potential occupational carcinogens will be classified and regulated in accordance with the policy. The
scientific evidence as to whether individual substances meet these criteria will be considered in individual rulemakings. The issues which may be
considered in these rulemakings will be limited as specified herein.
1990.111(f) This policy provides for the classification of potential occupational carcinogens into two categories
depending on the nature and extent of the available scientific evidence. The two categories of potential occupational carcinogens may be regulated
differently.
1990.111(g) The policy establishes a procedure for setting priorities and making them public.
1990.111(h) Worker exposure to Category I Potential Carcinogens will be reduced Primarily through the use of
engineering and work practice controls.
..1990.111(i)
1990.111(i) Worker exposure to Category II Potential Carcinogens will be reduced as appropriate and consistent with
the statutory requirements on a case-by-case basis in the rulemaking proceedings on individual substances. Any permissible exposure level so
established shall be met primarily through engineering and work practice controls.
1990.111(j) The assessment of cancer risk to workers resulting from exposure to a potential occupational carcinogen
will be made on the basis of available data. Because of the uncertainties and serious consequences to workers if the estimated risk is understated,
cautious and prudent assumptions will be utilized to perform risk assessments.
1990.111(k) Where the Secretary determines that one or more suitable substitutes exist for certain uses of Category
I Potential Carcinogens that are less hazardous to humans, a no occupational exposure level shall be set for those uses, to be achieved solely through
the use of engineering and work practice controls to encourage substitution. In determining whether a substitute is suitable, the Secretary will
consider the technological and economic feasibility of the introduction of the substitute, including its relative effectiveness and other relevant
factors, such as regulatory requirements and the time needed for an orderly transition to the substitute.
[45 FR 5282, Jan. 22, 1980, as amended at 46 FR 5881, Jan. 21, 1981]
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