Australia’s first silica dust code of practice commences in Queensland

Australia's First Silica Dust Code of Practice Commences in Queensland

A new code of practice designed to minimise worker exposure to silica dust in the construction industry is now in force in Queensland. This landmark regulation sets a national benchmark for managing occupational health risks on construction sites and manufacturing plants across the state.

The new code, titled 'Managing Respirable Crystalline Silica Dust Exposure in Construction and the Manufacturing of Construction Element', represents Australia's first code of practice for managing silica dust exposure at a state level. It applies directly to businesses involved in construction and plant-based manufacturing where crystalline silica dust presents a health hazard.

What the Code Means for Queensland Businesses

"Labour Day 2023 also marks the commencement of Queensland's nation leading silica dust code of practice for the construction and manufacturing industry," Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace said.

Ms Grace confirmed the Queensland Government will implement the majority of recommendations from an independent review of the Work Health and Safety Act 2011, reinforcing the state's commitment to workplace safety compliance and stronger health protections for every worker on site.

Why This Code of Practice Matters

Silica dust exposure remains one of the most serious occupational health hazards facing construction and manufacturing plant operators today. Businesses handling materials that generate respirable crystalline silica must now align their safety management systems with these updated compliance requirements.

Key areas covered by the code include:

• Identifying tasks and plant that generate silica dust during construction work
• Implementing control measures to reduce worker exposure
• Establishing health and safety obligations for construction element manufacturing

Employers operating plant or machinery that cuts, grinds, or drills silica-containing materials should review their current control measures against this new code to confirm ongoing compliance. Reviewing existing Silica Dust SWMS documentation is a practical first step toward meeting these obligations.

For businesses managing plant-related risks more broadly, the Managing Risks of Plant in the Workplace Code of Practice provides additional guidance relevant to construction and manufacturing settings.

National Context for Silica Dust Regulation

Queensland's approach follows broader national momentum on silica dust safety. Safe Work Australia has already released a model code of practice addressing silica dust risks in the workplace, while other jurisdictions are following suit — the Silica Dust Code of Practice commencing in the ACT reflects this growing nationwide focus on health protections for workers.

Queensland has previously led the way on workplace safety reform, having also introduced Australia's first ever amusement rides code of practice, further demonstrating the state's proactive stance on health and safety regulation.

Next Steps for Employers

Construction and manufacturing businesses should take time to assess how the new code affects daily site operations, plant usage, and existing control measures. A documented Silica Dust Management Plan can help demonstrate compliance while supporting practical, ongoing risk control on site.

Given the health risks associated with prolonged exposure, having a clear First Aid Policy in place also supports a safer, more responsive workplace for every worker affected by silica-related tasks.

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