Updated crystalline silica regulations in NSW aim to improve the protection of workers from silica exposure and reduce the risk of lung diseases.
The regulations require employers to;
- conduct more comprehensive risk assessments,
- implement stricter control measures,
- increase health monitoring,
- provide enhanced training, and
- maintain detailed records.
Understanding Crystalline Silica
To recap – a crystalline silica substance (CSS) is a hard, colourless mineral found in various materials, such as sand, sandstone, granite, and quartz. When these materials are cut, drilled, or crushed, they release silica dust into the air. Inhaling this dust can cause severe health problems, particularly if exposure is prolonged.
Where is it found?
Many of us would have heard through the media of the dangers (and now banning) of manufactured stone in the production of kitchen benches and counter tops. Crystalline silica is also found in many other areas – the list below shows the typical levels in some common materials;
- sand and sandstone: 70-100%
- manufactured stone: 93% or higher
- granite: 20-45% (typically 30%)
- concrete and mortar: 25-70%
- calcium-silicate bricks: 50-55%
- slate: 20-40%
- brick: up to 30%
- fibre cement sheets: 10-30%
- demolition dust: 3-4%
- marble: 2%
- limestone: 2%
The Dangers of Silica Exposure
Silica dust can cause a range of respiratory diseases, including:
- Silicosis
- Lung cancer:
- Tuberculosis
The severity of these diseases depends on the amount of silica dust inhaled and the duration of exposure. Workers in industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing are particularly at risk.
Key Changes in the Updated Regulations
The updated regulations introduce several significant changes aimed at improving the protection of workers from crystalline silica exposure. These changes include:
- Enhanced risk assessment: Employers must conduct a more comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential sources of silica exposure in the workplace and document it in a Silica Risk Control Plan.
-
- Note: A Silica Risk Control Plan is not required to be prepared before the processing of a CSS that is high risk if:
- the processing that is high risk is also high-risk construction work; and
- a SWMS is prepared, or has already been prepared by another person, before the processing commences; and
- the SWMS satisfies the requirements of a Silica Risk Control Plan.
- Note: A Silica Risk Control Plan is not required to be prepared before the processing of a CSS that is high risk if:
- Stricter control measures: Employers must implement stricter control measures to minimize silica dust exposure. This may involve using engineering controls, such as water suppression systems or local exhaust ventilation, as well as respirators.
- Increased health monitoring: Workers exposed to silica dust may be required to undergo more frequent health monitoring, including chest X-rays and lung function tests. This will help to detect early signs of lung disease and take appropriate action.
- Improved training and education: Employers must provide more comprehensive training and education to workers on the risks of silica exposure and the necessary precautions to protect their health. This includes training on the proper use of PPE and the importance of following safe work practices.
-
- TME can deliver the Nationally accredited course 10830NAT Course in crystalline silica exposure prevention
- Enhanced record-keeping: Employers must maintain detailed records of silica dust exposure, health monitoring, and training.
Compliance with the Regulations
Failure to comply can result in significant fines and legal consequences.
For more information, please visit Safework NSW. Also, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of silica dust hazards and effective control measures, consider enrolling in the 10830NAT course.