SAFETY ALERT
UPDATES TO THE QLD CODE OF PRACTICE 2023
Managing respirable crystalline silica dust exposure in construction and manufacturing of construction elements Code of Practice 2023.
The new Code is Australia’s first silica dust code of practice for the construction industry and will commence in Queensland on 1 May 2023. It applies to all construction work as well as the manufacturing of materials such as bricks, blocks, tiles, mortar, and concrete.
The Code outlines how duty holders can meet the requirements of Queensland’s work health and safety legislation, including eliminating or minimising exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) at work by:
• Using tried and tested dust control methods that prevent silica dust from being generated or being released into the air, including water suppression and on-tool dust extraction.
• Using appropriate respirable protective equipment to safeguard at-risk workers.
• Using exposure data from air monitoring to check dust controls are effective.
• Providing health monitoring to at-risk workers, with clearly defined triggers for testing based on level of risk.
• Consulting with workers, as well as training, education, instruction, and supervision of workers.
• Using exposure data from air monitoring to check dust controls are effective.
Currently, Queensland is the only state to make the changes to the code of practice.
NSW, WA, and, VIC, are under “Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace”.
At the time of this notification WorkSafe ACT are currently preparing their strategy for preventing occupational lung diseases. This includes a “guide” to assist in managing the risks of silica dust in the construction industry.
South Australia also follow SafeWork Australia’s code of practise model regarding engineered stone.
As R.C.S has as serious health impacts on our respiratory system it is seen as serious as Asbestos regarding long-term health effects.
The HSEQ Team are creating the framework for AJGA employees and contractors regarding these changes that will soon take place in QLD and investigate how we can minimise exposure.
New Procedures, Safe Working Procedures and training will be introduced in the coming weeks. HSEQ aim to educate through training and consultation and provide the latest information as it becomes available for other states.
If you would like to learn more about Silica Dust and your responsiblities; please visit the following links for extra resources :
- Managing crystalline silica dust exposure in construction worksafe QLD
- Safework Australia Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace.