Dusty Ott, CIH, is the corporate industrial hygienist for SKC Inc. in Eighty Four, Pennsylvania.
Q. How did SKC begin, and how has the company evolved?
A. SKC Inc. began as a pioneering company in the field of occupational health and safety, founded over 60 years ago with a mission to serve people. Over the years, SKC has evolved significantly, expanding its product line to include innovative solutions that address the ever-changing needs of industrial hygienists. From the development of the first commercially available sorbent tubes based on the NIOSH design and one of the first air sampling pumps to today’s advanced personal sampling pumps and size-selective samplers, SKC has consistently led the industry by focusing on research, quality, and its customers. This evolution reflects the company’s commitment to advancing the science of occupational exposure assessment and ensuring the health and safety of workers worldwide.
Q. What are some of the changes you’ve seen in the OEHS industry over the years?
A. Over the years, the OEHS industry has seen substantial changes. There has been a significant shift towards more stringent regulatory standards, particularly in the measurement and control of airborne contaminants such as respirable crystalline silica. Technological advancements have played a crucial role, with the development of more sophisticated and accurate sampling equipment, real-time monitoring capabilities, and data analysis tools. Additionally, there is a greater emphasis on proactive and preventive measures, rather than merely reactive responses to occupational hazards. The industry’s focus has broadened to include a more holistic approach to worker health, encompassing physical, chemical, biological, and ergonomic factors.
Q. What challenges are your customers facing right now?
A. One of the prominent challenges our customers are currently facing is compliance with the new MSHA regulations regarding silica sampling in mines. The new MSHA final silica rule requires mines to conduct thorough and accurate sampling of respirable crystalline silica and respirable dust to protect miners from silicosis and other respiratory diseases. This has placed significant pressure on mine operators to implement effective sampling programs that meet these stringent standards. Ensuring accurate sampling in the harsh and variable conditions of mining environments is a complex task, requiring reliable equipment and expert guidance.
Q. What challenges do organizations typically face when implementing a comprehensive IH sampling plan? How does SKC help customers overcome these challenges?
A. Organizations, particularly in the mining sector, face numerous challenges when implementing an IH sampling plan. Let’s take silica sampling to comply with the new MSHA final silica rule as an example. Challenges include selecting the appropriate sampling equipment, ensuring proper calibration and use, and interpreting the results accurately. SKC helps customers overcome these challenges by offering a comprehensive range of products and services tailored to meet these needs. Our PPI® Samplers and MSHA Silica Rental Kits are designed for ease of use and reliability in challenging environments. Additionally, SKC provides extensive training, technical support, and expert consultation to ensure that our customers can effectively implement and manage their sampling programs, thereby ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safeguarding worker health.
Q. What are the goals for SKC over the next five to ten years, and how do you plan to achieve them?
A. Over the next five to ten years, SKC aims to continue leading the industry in the development of innovative and reliable sampling solutions. Our goals include expanding our product line to incorporate the latest technological advancements, enhancing our real-time monitor offerings, and improving data analysis and reporting tools. We also plan to strengthen our global presence by increasing our outreach and support services to customers worldwide. To achieve these goals, we will invest in research and development, foster partnerships with leading OEHS professionals and organizations, and maintain our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Collaborating with experts and staying attuned to industry needs will ensure that we continue to provide solutions that meet the evolving demands of occupational health and safety.
