Changes to work health and safety legislation continue to be introduced to better protect workers from the risks associated with exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS). These reforms form part of a coordinated national response to the rising incidence of silicosis and other serious dust‑related diseases, with additional measures implemented in New South Wales.
These changes apply to a wide range of industries, including building and construction, demolition, excavation, tunnelling, mining, concreting, manufacturing, and stone cutting, grinding and polishing.
Current exposure standards and prohibitions
The workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica is 0.05 mg/m³, averaged over an eight‑hour workday. Employers must ensure exposure is kept at or below this level and reduced as far as reasonably practicable.
The manufacture, supply, processing and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs is now prohibited. Strict controls also apply to any permitted work involving legacy engineered stone products.
Stronger controls for silica‑related work
Uncontrolled processing of materials containing crystalline silica is prohibited. Employers must implement effective higher‑order control measures, such as wet methods, on‑tool dust extraction, local exhaust ventilation and appropriate respiratory protection. For high‑risk tasks, a documented Silica Risk Control Plan is required, along with worker training and supervision.
Health monitoring requirements
Where there is a significant risk of exposure to respirable crystalline silica, health monitoring is mandatory. Employers must arrange health monitoring with a suitably experienced medical practitioner. This may include baseline and ongoing medical assessments, lung function testing and other investigations based on exposure history and clinical judgement. Health monitoring supports early detection of silica‑related disease and helps assess whether workplace controls are effective.
NSW Silica Worker Register
For high‑risk crystalline silica work, employers are required to register affected workers with SafeWork NSW within the required timeframe. The register supports long‑term health surveillance and improved regulatory oversight.
What this means for employers
Employers must:
- Identify tasks that involve crystalline silica
- Assess and control exposure risks
- Implement effective engineering and administrative controls
- Provide mandatory health monitoring where required
- Register high‑risk workers and maintain records
- Comply with notification and reporting obligations
Failure to meet these requirements may result in significant penalties.
How IMMEX can help
IMMEX provides crystalline silica health monitoring assessments aligned with current legislative requirements. We support employers in meeting their obligations and protecting worker health through appropriate baseline and ongoing medical surveillance.
To book a silica health monitoring assessment or discuss how these requirements apply to your workplace, contact IMMEX on 02 9319 5999 or email info@immex.com.au
References: