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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.  


 
Silica monitoring

Silica monitoring approaches and critical timing

Our silica monitoring services includes:
  • Personal exposure monitoring using sampling pumps and cyclones worn by workers
  • Area and task-based assessments to identify high-risk activities
  • Laboratory analysis of collected samples, using advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction or infrared spectroscopy.

We provide clear, actionable reports that benchmark results against workplace exposure standards and offer practical recommendations for risk reduction and compliance.

Silica monitoring should be conducted:
  • During or after construction, demolition, or stone fabrication activities
  • When new processes or materials that may generate silica dust are introduced
  • In response to regulatory requirements or health concerns
  • As part of routine occupational hygiene programs.

If you are unsure about your team’s exposure to silica dust, we can help you assess, monitor and manage silica risks to help ensure a safe and compliant workplace.

 

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. 


Industrial hazmat