Silica dust reforms in the ACT

What are the first set of reforms?

The first set of reforms, introduced in April 2022, are to be a prohibition on uncontrolled dry cutting, and mandatory silica dust awareness training for workers. Other provisions to follow include additional requirements for air monitoring and for health monitoring of workers.

The ban on uncontrolled dry cutting will include the use of a power tool, for cutting, grinding, trimming, sanding, polishing or drilling of silica containing materials. According to the government, this will apply to:

• engineered stone
• natural stone containing silica
• concrete
• masonry
• cement
• mortar and bricks

However, PCBUs may implement a combination of control measures to manage the risks of exposure to silica dust. This might include use of water delivery systems, on-tool dust extraction, segregation of work areas and respiratory protective equipment.

Mandatory silica dust awareness training (which will be similar to that for asbestos awareness training) will be required  from 1 July 2023.

From 1 October 2023 all workers coming onto site in the ACT in a declared occupation will need to have completed the mandatory 10830NAT - Course in Crystalline Silica Exposure.

Members are strongly encouraged to book in to one of silica training courses without delay as places in each of the courses are filling fast.

You can book, yourself or your team into a course at our dedicated book now for ACT mandatory silica training course

What are the second set of reforms?

The second set of reforms, (to be introduced in July 2022 and become effective from 1 January 2023), will expand on existing air monitoring and health monitoring requirements of the WHS laws. According the ACT government: 

• PCBU’s that carry out high risk silica dust work will be required to undertake air monitoring at regular intervals to ensure that the workplace exposure standard of 0.05 mg/m3 is not exceeded. Air monitoring could be required at least every 6 months and when there are changes in the workplace, work practice or work materials. 
• Health monitoring requirements would involve:
  • baseline health monitoring for each worker before working in silica risk work 
  • regular/ongoing health monitoring during the worker’s employment – at least annually 
  • a health assessment on exiting employment. 

Along with these reforms, the ACT will also consider be adopting the model codes of practice developed by SafeWork Australia pertaining to silica safety. Further details of these reforms can be found in the ACT Governments website.