Tighter controls to protect people working with crystalline silica substances (CSS)came into effect on 1 September 2024.
The stronger regulation of processing crystalline silica substances applies across all industries to protect workers, and others at the workplace, from exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
Examples of crystalline silica substances include natural stone products such as marble or granite, engineered stone, porcelain and ceramic products, sandstone, asphalt, cement products, bricks, tiles or any material containing at least one per cent crystalline silica by weight.
Processing crystalline silica may involve the use of power tools or mechanical plant to carry out an activity involving the crushing, cutting, grinding, trimming, sanding, abrasive polishing or drilling of crystalline silica substances.
Quarrying, screening, tunnelling or excavating material containing crystalline silica is also considered processing.
The new regulations follow a national ban on the manufacture, supply, processing and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs, which came into effect on 1 July 2024.
High-risk processing of crystalline silica substances is defined as processing that is reasonably likely to result in a risk to the health of a person at the workplace.
In addition to consulting with workers, key requirements for employers undertaking high-risk crystalline silica processes include:
- ensuring processing is adequately managed in accordance with the requirements of the new regulations and the hierarchy of controls
- developing a silica risk control plan based on the outcomes of a risk assessment, detailing the specific tasks and control measures related to processing the substance
- provide accredited or regulator approved crystalline silica training to workers, covering health risks of exposure and the need for and proper use of control measures
- undertaking air monitoring for respirable crystalline silica and provide health monitoring for all workers carrying out high risk processing.
In the construction industry, processing crystalline silica substances is classified as high-risk construction work. Therefore, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) must be prepared before work begins.
If the SWMS contains all the relevant information to meet the new CSS regulations, a separate Silica Risk Control Plan is not required.
Exposure to crystalline silica dust can cause the serious lung disease, silicosis, and other health problems including lung cancer, chronic kidney disease and a range of autoimmune conditions.
With the new CSS regulation in effect, SafeWork SA will prioritise CSS-related
notifications, requiring worksite visits and audits of safe work method statements (SWMS).
Webinars on CSS management will be hosted by SafeWork SA. Audits will also be conducted in the demolition industry as part of the campaign.
Expected Outcomes:
- Improved compliance with CSS regulations
- Enhanced awareness and management of silica-related risks
- Reduced exposure to crystalline silica.
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