Latest News Regarding Silica Dust

Latest News Regarding Silica Dust

The dangers of working with silica dust have hit the headlines this week, as work health and safety ministers across the country, plan to meet to discuss the issue, in response to concerns raised by the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CMFEU).

The meeting will consider the management and potential import ban of engineered stone products. Whilst the ACT have introduced Silica dust reforms for employers, the health risks are undiscerning and employers and workers from all states should be aware of the risks. Learn more

What is Silicosis?

When workers cut, crush, drill, polish, saw or grind products that contain silica, airborne dust particles are released and can lodge deep in the lungs causing illness or disease.

Recent Media

60 minutes “Last Gasp” episode on the dangers of working with silica

Safe Work NSW response to 60 minutes “Last Gasp” episode

Understand your obligations under the Work Health & Safety reforms for the management of silica dust in the ACT

Follow the steps below to keep you and your workforce safe when working with silica dust.

Read the Fact Sheet  Fact Sheet – New Silica Dust Safety Regulations for the ACT

Pay close attention to the important dates listed in the sections headed –

• High Risk Construction Work Rules and inclusion in Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) – 31^st January 2023
• Mandatory Training – 1^st July

Read the Guide Guide to Managing Silica Dust at Construction Sites

Understand the risks and controls. This will assist in writing or updating your SWMS.

Refer to the SWMS example SWMS – example of how to complete

Learn how to complete the SWMS for your business by referring to the example.

Complete the SWMS template or update your current SWMS  SWMS Template

Enrol workers in the course- 10830NAT – Course in Crystalline Silica Exposure

This is a 4 hour course delivered face to face at multiple locations. Government funding may be available. Apply online at https://www.trainingfund.com.au/courses prior to enrolling.

The Landscape Association will work with member; Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT) to deliver classes specifically for landscape members. We will advertise these as they are confirmed.

The following training providers also deliver this course to the public–

• Canberra Institute of Technology https://cit.edu.au/courses/professional/building_management/SA-BD52
• Master Builders ACT (MBA)

https://mba.org.au/training/10830nat-course-in-crystalline-silica-exposure-prevention/

Offer MBA Member and Govt Funded pricing (if eligible)

• Alertforce

https://alertforce.com.au/

Offer Govt Funded pricing (if eligible)

• Creative Safety Initiatives (CSI)

https://csisafety.com.au/

Offer Govt Funded pricing (if eligible)