Silica Dust Risks in WA Construction - The Need to Know
Silica dust has become one of the most serious workplace health risks in Western Australia’s construction industry. As regulations tighten and awareness grows, businesses across WA are expected to strengthen their controls and protect workers from exposure - or face significant penalties.
What Is Silica Dust?
Silica dust is created when materials containing crystalline silica are cut, drilled, polished, sanded, or crushed. Common materials include:
Concrete
Bricks and pavers
Tiles
Engineered stone
Mortar and grout
Sand and soil
The dust particles are incredibly fine - up to 100 times smaller than a grain of sand, meaning workers can easily inhale them without noticing.
Why Silica Dust Is Dangerous
When inhaled, silica dust can cause irreversible and life-threatening diseases, including:
Silicosis (incurable lung scarring)
Lung cancer
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Kidney disease
Tragically, cases of accelerated silicosis have risen across Australia in the last few years, especially among workers cutting engineered stone.
High-Risk Tasks
Silica exposure is most common during:
Cutting or grinding concrete
Masonry and brick cutting
Demolition
Tiling and grout removal
Concrete polishing
Engineered stone fabrication
Your Legal Duties in WA
Under the WHS Regulations 2022, construction businesses must:
Conduct silica risk assessments
Use effective dust control measures (wet cutting, LEV extraction, ventilation)
Arrange air monitoring if exposure levels are uncertain
Provide health monitoring for at-risk workers
Train workers on silica risks and proper PPE
Maintain accurate records and documentation
Penalties for Non-Compliance
WA businesses risk fines, stop-work notices, or legal action if workers are exposed to unsafe silica levels. WorkSafe has increased inspections across the state.
Silica dust is a preventable hazard - if risks are identified and controlled properly. With the right systems in place, WA construction businesses can protect workers and stay compliant.
Need help managing silica risks or organising air monitoring? Holdfast Solutions is here to support your project.