Silica monitoring

Protecting workers from respirable crystalline silica (RCS)

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is a hazardous dust generated when materials containing silica – such as sand, concrete, glass, bricks and engineered stone benchtops – are cut, ground, drilled or otherwise disturbed.

Crystalline silica (silicon dioxide, SiO₂) is a common mineral used in many industrial products. When tiny particles of RCS are inhaled, they can travel deep into lung tissues and cause irreversible damage.

Diseases associated with silica exposure include silicosis (a preventable but incurable and often fatal disease), lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease.

Workplace standards

Anyone working with materials containing silica must accurately determine present silica concentration levels to effectively limit exposure. Workplace health and safety authorities set exposure standards for RCS, which are regularly reviewed in line with international best practices. It is essential to check and comply with the current exposure limits relevant to your jurisdiction.

Employers and persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) have a duty to manage risks associated with hazardous substances and ensure workers are not exposed above prescribed exposure standards. If there is uncertainty about exposure levels, monitoring must be carried out.

Protecting workers from respirable crystalline silica (RCS)