Processing crystalline silica-containing substances (CSS) generates a respirable dust fraction that is a known and significant health hazard. Industries such as construction and mining have made substantial progress in their understanding of this hazard and in the development of effective control strategies.

This progress has been particularly strong in the higher levels of the Hierarchy of Controls, specifically Elimination, Substitution and Engineering Controls. In parallel, the availability of more in-situ and laboratory test data is enabling more informed decision-making when selecting and implementing controls, as well as strengthening the quality of CSS processing risk assessments in line with relevant Regulator Codes of Practice.

This educational session outlines existing, proven and comprehensive control strategies that support more effective work health and safety management decision-making. It also demonstrates how these approaches can deliver measurable productivity and sustainability improvements, alongside strengthened health and safety outcomes.