Over the last few years, the Australian government has taken decisive steps to protect workers against the dangers of silica dust – responsible for silicosis and other diseases.
“It’s estimated that 600,000 Australians are exposed to silica dust annually, potentially resulting in hundreds of new cases of silicosis – an occupational disease that is preventable,” says Stephen Blackie, Portfolio Manager, Workplace Health & Safety Show.
In the construction industry, where workers are frequently exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS), it’s critical that employers are aware of the risks and the silica standards, as well as the controls and measures that should be put in place to protect workers. “It’s not unusual for the average construction worker to spend 10 hours a day on-site, where even sweeping dust could lead to excessive exposure to RCS,” adds Stephen.
Navigating complex regulations Employers are required to ensure that construction work does not exceed the current Workplace Exposure Standard (WES) for RCS dust, which is 0.05 mg/m³ over the average 8-hour shift.
In addition, they must identify the materials and tasks that could result in significant RCS exposure, and document the controls they would implement to prevent risk. Air quality monitoring, health screenings and the use of specialised equipment and PPE to prevent exposure, are essential. Construction companies that fail to adhere to the exposure standards could face fines and prosecution.
“Construction companies, foremen and safety professionals that want to improve their compliance with the RCS exposure standards and find the equipment and tech solutions to enhance worker safety, will find all the answers at Workplace Health and Safety Show,” says Stephen.
The Show will take place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 21 to 22 May 2025, and registration for the Show is free. It features an exhibition of over 180 leading suppliers of the latest in safety equipment, PPE and AI-driven solutions.
The Show also offers over 40 hours of free educational content, with tailored CPD seminars, workshops and panel discussions, exploring practical strategies and best practices to improve safety outcomes.
Going beyond compliance The High-Risk Safety Summit – one of the targeted summit programs on offer at the Show – includes a presentation on the on the latest silica standards, delivered by Halil Ahmet (the Principal Occupational Hygienist at WorkSafe Victoria). His session, Beyond the Ban: Adapting to 2025 silica standards, will explore how to implement compliance measures without disrupting workflows.
“With topics ranging from the silica standards, fall prevention and psychosocial hazards to fire safety and workplace safety culture, the High-Risk Safety Summit will tackle the most pressing safety challenges in high-risk environments including construction to mining, manufacturing and transport, and guide attendees in building a stronger, safer future,” explains Stephen.
The High-Risk Safety Summit presenters include:
- Scott Barber, CEO – Working At Height Association
- Ingrid Fuentes, a professional with extensive experience providing asset safety, risk, compliance, legal and governance advice, and the General Manager Network Safety & Risk – Energy QLD
- Ian McLeod, Executive Director Strategic Safety – Victorian Infrastructure Delivery Authority
- Kurt Warren, a safety executive with 25 of experience in safety leadership and the Head of HSEQ & Sustainability at Hansen Yuncken
- Dean Smith, Category Manager Bool PT – TRu Brands
“Keeping workers safe is more complex than ever. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your safety culture, improve compliance with the new standards, or find innovative solutions to mitigate risks, Workplace Health and Safety Show is the must-attend event for construction professionals,” reiterates Stephen.
More information is available at whsshow.com.au/melbourne.
