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Silica monitoring

Helping protect workers from respirable crystalline silica (RCS)

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is a fine hazardous dust released when materials containing silica are cut, drilled, crushed, polished or disturbed. These materials are common in New Zealand industries and include concrete, natural stone, sand, mortar, bricks, tiles, ceramics, glass products and engineered stone benchtops. Silica particles are extremely small and can reach deep into the lungs when inhaled. Over time, exposure can lead to serious and irreversible illnesses such as silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and kidney damage.

Workers involved in construction, manufacturing, quarrying, stone fabrication and similar sectors may be exposed to elevated RCS levels. To prevent harmful exposure, it is essential to understand the level of airborne silica generated by each task. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, businesses must manage risks related to airborne contaminants and ensure workers are not exposed above the applicable workplace exposure standard. If exposure levels are uncertain, monitoring is required.

Workplace exposure standards for RCS are reviewed regularly and reflect current scientific understanding. Employers should ensure they are working with the most up-to-date exposure limits that apply in New Zealand.

Silica monitoring

Our approach to silica monitoring and when testing is required

ALS provides silica monitoring services designed to help New Zealand businesses understand, control and manage silica risks. Our assessments support compliance with workplace health and safety obligations and provide clear data for decision making.

Our services include:

  • Personal exposure monitoring using sampling pumps and cyclones worn by workers during normal tasks
  • Area and task-based sampling to identify high-generating activities or poorly controlled processes
  • Laboratory analysis using recognised methods such as X-ray diffraction or infrared spectroscopy
  • Reporting that compares results with New Zealand Workplace Exposure Standards and includes practical recommendations for engineering, administrative and respiratory control improvements.

Silica monitoring is recommended::

  • During or after activities that disturb stone, concrete, mortar or other silica containing materials
  • When new tools, equipment or materials are introduced
  • If workers raise concerns about visible dust or respiratory symptoms
  • When required as part of regulatory compliance or ongoing occupational hygiene programs.

If you are unsure whether silica dust poses a risk in your workplace, ALS can help you assess exposure, confirm compliance and implement appropriate controls to protect your workforce.

 
 
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