Managing Risks of Respirable Crystalline Silica in Workplace – Code of Practice Checklist
Download this resource
Available in the following formats:
What This Checklist Is
This checklist is a practical self-review tool that helps businesses reflect on how respirable crystalline silica risks are identified and managed at work. It is commonly used during internal reviews, planning activities, or improvement discussions where cutting, grinding, drilling, or similar tasks occur. The checklist is intended for owners, managers, and supervisors who want a clear way to sense-check everyday Work Health and Safety practices.
It is a practical review tool, not a compliance test and not legal advice.
How This Checklist Relates to the Code of Practice
A WHS Code of Practice describes accepted ways of managing Work Health and Safety risks in Australia. This checklist reflects the key themes of the Code by focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk control for silica-related work. Answering “Yes” and “No” helps highlight where current practices reduce exposure risks and where gaps or weaknesses may exist.
The checklist supports understanding of good practice without claiming legal alignment.
Why Use a Code of Practice Checklist?
Silica risks are often invisible and can be underestimated until health effects appear. A checklist like this helps clarify what “good practice” looks like when managing dust-generating work. It supports early identification of weak or missing controls and helps set clearer priorities for WHS improvement.
It also supports more informed discussions with workers, advisors, or inspectors about workplace safety.
Key Features
Simple Yes / No checklist format
Written in plain English
Designed for Australian WHS Codes of Practice
Suitable for small and medium businesses
How to Use This Checklist
Work through the questions honestly, based on how silica-generating tasks are actually carried out rather than how they are intended to be done. The checklist is most useful when answers reflect real tools, work methods, and site conditions.
Treat “No” answers as areas needing further attention. Use the results to prioritise practical actions and revisit the checklist when tasks, materials, or risks change.
What Inspectors Commonly Expect to See
Inspectors generally focus on how silica risks are identified and managed in practice, not just on written plans. They look for evidence that dust hazards are recognised, risks are assessed, and controls are applied to reduce exposure. Tools like this checklist support informed decision-making by showing that silica risks have been actively reviewed.
Action and understanding usually matter more than paperwork alone. Inspectors often want to see that issues identified lead to practical changes.
Notes or action lists from checklist reviews
Changes made to risk controls or work practices
Records showing issues were identified and addressed
FAQs
What is respirable crystalline silica?
It is a fine dust created when materials like concrete, stone, or engineered products are cut or worked. The checklist helps review how exposure risks are managed at work.
Is this checklist only for construction work?
No. Silica risks can exist in manufacturing, fabrication, maintenance, and other industries. The checklist is relevant wherever silica dust may be generated.
Does completing the checklist mean silica risks are controlled?
No. The checklist helps identify strengths and gaps but does not control risks on its own. It supports review and improvement.
When should silica risks be reviewed?
Reviews are useful when tasks change, new materials are introduced, or concerns are raised. Many businesses also review periodically.
Articles and Further Reading
Regulation s529A–s529CE – Crystalline Silica – Establishes specific duties for managing risks associated with respirable crystalline silica in workplaces.
Regulation s49–s50 – Airborne Contaminants – Sets requirements for managing exposure to airborne contaminants, including dust generated during cutting, grinding, and drilling activities.
About the Author
About the Author
Nathan Owen
Nathan has worked in construction for 15 years, primarily in health and safety and site management. He has frontline experience including operating plant and machinery and post-graduate qualifications in health and safety.