For Immediate Release

Written in an easy-to-understand style, the publication is designed to assist manufacturers in complying with the new guidelines and avoiding fines. In the first of its two sections, the book covers compliance issues for city, state, and federal codes. In addition to identifying common violations, it focuses on possible permit requirements and certified testing labs, hazard communication regulations, and steps for developing an injury and illness prevention program. The second section, "Safe Shop Practices," provides general information for safely working with chemical and hazardous materials, as well as proper procedures for bench work and casting.

The manual is the first step in what will become a national outreach program. "Industry issues of this type often start in California and spread outward, and I believe that manufacturers across the country will ultimately face revised compliance guidelines instituted by their local government agencies," said James F. Marquart, MJSA president/CEO. "I feel confident that we're creating a flexible program that we can adapt—with the help of manufacturers in each region—to come up with workable solutions."

The Compliance Solutions manual is made possible through a grant from the JCK Jewelry Industry Fund. The manual was developed through the MJSA Education Foundation, which provided the initial funding.

Compliance Solutions is available at no charge to MJSA members; the non-member price is $45. For more information, contact MJSA director of education, Mary Walek, at 1-800-444-6572, ext. 3041, or by e-mail at mwalek@mjsainc.commwalek@mjsainc.com.

####