OSHA says 10 of its employees have tested positive for beryllium sensitization.

In a written statement, acting OSHA chief Jonathan L. Snare said that 271 employees have undergone tests for exposure to the toxic metal beryllium. He said another 31 employees expressed interest in being tested, but have yet to schedule their appointments for testing.

"Ten employees, or 3.7 percent of those tested, have tested positive for sensitization to beryllium," Snare said. "A positive test shows a sensitization to beryllium, but it does not imply that one has, or will develop, chronic beryllium disease. The test results also don't tell us whether those who tested 'positive' developed that sensitization during their employment with OSHA."

Beryllium is used in nuclear weapons, automobiles, computers, and golf clubs. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified beryllium and beryllium compounds as carcinogenic to humans.

Critics of OSHA's response to concerns over beryllium exposure say that the agency waited too long to implement a testing program. In 2003, Adam Finkel, a former regional administrator at the agency, accused the agency of transferring him because he wanted OSHA to order blood tests for inspectors who may have been exposed to beryllium. OSHA denied the allegations.

OSHA implemented the testing program in April 2004 and initial testing began in August 2004.

The Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility continues to urge the agency to expand the program to include testing for more OSHA employees.