Frequently Asked Questions (Issue 109)

A new section of Sand & Stone created for communicating to readers; questions being asked by members to the Secretariat.

What is the exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica dust (RCSD)?

The exposure standard for RCSD (listed under Quartz (respirable dust)) is 0.05 mg/m3 (previously 0.1 mg/m3) as a TWA (time-weighted average) airborne concentration over 8 hours.

WorkSafe Victoria recommends that employees are not exposed to levels above 0.02 mg/m3 as an eight-hour TWA.

When must RCSD air (atmospheric) monitoring be conducted?

Where there is uncertainty about whether the exposure standard is or may be exceeded, or where air monitoring is necessary to determine whether there is a risk to employee health, and therefore if health monitoring is required.

When should health monitoring be conducted for RCSD exposure?

Employers must provide health monitoring if exposure to crystalline silica is likely to have an adverse effect on employees’ health. This is particularly important where lower level control measures, such as PPE, are relied on to reduce exposure.

Health monitoring is required for employees who are exposed to silica dust at levels likely to exceed the exposure standard.

Health monitoring must be undertaken by a registered medical practitioner. It needs to be carried out by an occupational physician who is a fellow of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (AFOEM), with expertise in respiratory and silica exposure health monitoring.

Further information available at: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/dust-containing-crystalline-silica-extractive-industry

To ask a question that could be shared amongst all members in the association please contact the CMPA:

Phone: 03 5781 6055
Fax: 03 5782 2021
Email: enquiries@cmavic.asn.au

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