� � standardised respiratory questionnaire standardised respiratory function tests , and � chest X-Ray full posterior-anterior view .
The model WHS Regulations allow for alternative types of health monitoring if they are equal to or better than these methods and the use of that other type of monitoring is recommended by a registered medical practitioner with experience in health monitoring . 27 In Western Australia low dose High resolution computed tomography is explicitly required instead of chest X-Ray for health monitoring .
The PCBU is also responsible for providing information to staff about health monitoring , and for providing copies of the health monitoring report to other PCBUs who have a duty to provide health monitoring to the worker ( Safe Work Australia 2021a ). If a report indicates that a worker is experiencing adverse health effects or signs of illness because of exposure to RCS , control measures in the workplace must be reviewed and revised as necessary ( Safe Work Australia 2021a ).
High risk construction work and preparation of SWMS
Construction work is defined in the model WHS Regulations as any work carried out in connection with the construction , alteration , conversion , fitting-out , commissioning , renovation , repair , maintenance , refurbishment , demolition , decommissioning or dismantling of a structure . Regulation 291 of the model WHS Regulations sets out a list of high risk construction work for which a SWMS is required . This includes work carried out in an area that may have a contaminated or flammable atmosphere . Construction work that involves processing silica-containing materials is high risk construction work when it generates RCS that may contaminate the workplace ’ s atmosphere and would require a SWMS ( Safe Work Australia 2021a ).
The SWMS must be accessible and understandable to any individual who needs to use it . 28 If any high risk construction work is carried out , outside the manner stipulated in the SWMS , the PCBU must ensure that the work is stopped immediately or as soon as it is safe to do so , and only resumed in accordance with the SWMS . 29
Other duties for PCBUs working with engineered stone
The model WHS Regulations were amended in 2023 to remove any doubt in relation to the applicable control measures when working with engineered stone .
A PCBU must not process , or direct or allow a worker to process , engineered stone unless the processing of the stone is controlled through either a water delivery system that supplies a continuous feed of water over the stone being processed to suppress the generation of dust , an on-tool extraction system , or a local exhaust ventilation system and respiratory protective equipment . The amended model WHS Regulations also provide a definition of engineered stone as meaning an artificial product that :
( i ) contains crystalline silica , and
( ii ) is created by combining natural stone materials with other chemical constituents such as water , resins or pigments , and
27 model WHS Regulations r370 .
28 model WHS Regulations r299
29 model WHS Regulations r300
DECISION REGULATION IMPACT STATEMENT Prohibition on the use of engineered stone Page 67 of 107