− What are the scenarios that may cause workers to be exposed to silica dust ? o for example , are they exposed to silica dust when it is freshly generated or during housekeeping tasks after dust has accumulated ?
− Is there evidence of exposure to silica dust ? o for example , are dust clouds evident near workers when engineered stone is cut ?
− What are the conditions under which the work is carried out ? o for example , is work on engineered stone carried out in an enclosed space that is isolated from workers ?
− What are the skills , level of competence and experience of workers ?
A silica dust control plan is a practical tool for a PCBU that is informed by a risk assessment . It can help a PCBU identify all potential tasks that may result in exposure , or possible exposure , to silica dust and the control measures to eliminate or minimise that exposure .
A silica dust control plan should consider ways to :
− eliminate or minimise the amount of silica dust being generated and released into the air − prevent silica dust being breathed in by workers − clean up any silica dust , slurry or other waste produced , and − decontaminate workers ’ clothing , footwear and protective equipment .
A silica dust control plan should include details on :
− the percentage of crystalline silica in the product being used , as the higher the percentage the higher the level of silica in the dust and the greater the risk − all sources of silica dust in the workplace − the dust control measures implemented for each activity − how dust control measures are integrated into daily shift routines , for example , tool box talks , pre-start checks and daily cleaning of work areas − how air monitoring is used to assess whether the controls are working − the systems in place to routinely inspect , maintain and monitor controls and equipment to ensure they are clean and functioning effectively − ongoing monitoring and review strategies , particularly in response to incidents , control failure or where the workplace exposure standard is exceeded , and − how risks , controls and any control failures , and where the workplace exposure standard is exceeded , are communicated and reported .
Where a PCBU has decided to develop a silica dust control plan , it must be developed in consultation with workers involved in carrying out the tasks and the HSR , where there is one .
A PCBU may also share the silica dust control plan with the registered medical practitioner carrying out or supervising health monitoring . This will allow the registered medical practitioner to identify any possible source of silica dust exposure , taking into account the control measures in place .
A template for a silica dust control plan is provided at Attachment B .
Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace - Code of Practice 29 of 57