All of these employees, Brush officials said, had worked at the plant less than seven years, and some worked in areas thought to be relatively safe. Some welcomed Brush's actions. We are heartened that Brush Wellman is working to improve safety and health conditions for its employees,'' said Charles Jeffress, head of the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Brush officials said the timing of the changes was not related to The Blade's recent series on the beryllium industry or the adverse publicity that followed. The articles caused several members of Congress to call for hearings into the matter.
Beryllium is a metal used in the defense, electronics, and automotive industries.
Workers who process or machine it may contract an incurable, often-fatal lung disease by inhaling the toxic dust. An estimated 1,200 American workers have contracted beryllium disease nationwide since the 1940s. Brush reports 142 cases companywide, including those found in recent testing at the Elmore plant. Brush officials said respirators will be mandatory in areas of the plant where it is likely dust levels will exceed the federal safety standard. Collecting more air samples using small monitors attached to workers' shirt lapels.