Construction dust, particularly respirable crystalline silica (RCS), poses a risk of causing severe lung conditions like silicosis.
Learn more about the dangers associated with dust containing respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and the necessary precautions you should take to ensure the safety of yourself and your workers.
Crystalline silica, also known as silicon dioxide, is a prevalent mineral present in various construction materials, including:
- Bricks, blocks, pavers, tiles, and mortar
- Concrete and cement-based products, such as fibre-cement sheeting and autoclaved-aerated concrete
- Most rocks, sands, and clays.
During the processing of these materials (e.g., cutting, sawing, grinding, drilling, polishing, scabbling, or crushing), dust containing RCS can be released.
Engaging in tasks like dry sweeping or using compressed air blowers on dust containing RCS can potentially make it airborne, increasing the risk of inhalation.
The Managing respirable crystalline silica dust exposure in construction and manufacturing of construction elements Code of Practice 2022 (PDF, 1.71 MB) sets out:
- enforceable standards that must be met to minimise the risk of worker exposure to RCS dust in construction work and the manufacturing of construction elements
- information about the risks and impacts of exposure to RCS dust in construction work and the manufacturing of construction elements.