Stricter regulations regarding crystalline silica substances now in force

Amendments to the model Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations have been published by Safe Work Australia, designed to bolster protections for employees at risk of silica dust exposure across all sectors, particularly in building and construction.

Safe Work Australia said the amendments establish more stringent regulations concerning the handling of all materials that contain a minimum of 1% crystalline silica.

The federal regulatory body indicates that any changes to the Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations will only be enforced in a jurisdiction once they have been adopted into the WHS legal framework of that jurisdiction.

Safe Work Australia points out that various resources are provided to assist persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) in recognising and complying with their duties under the updated regulations.

Learn more here.