Crystalline Silica Information
Dear Valued Customer,
We are reaching out to share important information regarding the potential presence of crystalline silica in some of our products.
Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral commonly found in materials such as sandstone, limestone and granites. While it is widely used across various industries, prolonged inhalation of silica dust can pose health risks, including the development of a lung condition known as silicosis.
For reassurance, we do not sell manmade products which contain high levels of silica and have been banned from sales across Australia.
We want to assure you that your health and safety are our top priorities. To help minimize exposure when working with our products, we recommend the following precautions:
🛠️ Work Practices
- Use wet cutting methods: Water suppresses dust at the source. Always cut, grind, or polish stone while it’s wet.
- Ventilation is key: Use local exhaust ventilation systems to capture dust before it spreads.
- Avoid dry cutting: This dramatically increases airborne silica particles.
🧰 Equipment & Controls
- HEPA-filter vacuums: Clean up dust with vacuums equipped with HEPA filters—never dry sweep.
- Enclosures or isolation: If possible, isolate dusty tasks or use enclosed equipment.
- Maintain filters: Replace water and air filters regularly to keep systems effective.
🧑🔧 Personal Protection
- Wear a proper respirator: Use a respirator rated for silica dust (like a P2 or N95 mask) when exposure can’t be avoided.
- Protective clothing: Wear disposable or washable workwear to avoid bringing dust home.
📚 Training & Monitoring
- Get trained: Make sure everyone on-site understands the risks and safe practices.
- Air monitoring: Regularly check silica levels to ensure they’re within safe limits.
- Stronger national rules: As of 1 September 2024, all crystalline silica substances (CSS) are more strictly regulated across Australia. This includes any material with 1% or more crystalline silica by weight.
- Engineered stone ban: The manufacture, supply, processing, and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs is now banned nationwide.
- Queensland’s Code of Practice (2022): This was Australia’s first silica dust code for construction. It mandates:
- Use of wet cutting and on-tool dust extraction
- Air monitoring to verify control effectiveness
- Health monitoring for at-risk workers
- Training and consultation with workers
🧾 Key Duties for Employers (PCBUs)
- Identify and manage silica risks
- Implement control measures (e.g., ventilation, PPE)
- Maintain exposure below the Workplace Exposure Standard (0.05 mg/m³ as an 8-hour TWA)
- Provide health surveillance where required
For more information about crystalline silica and safe handling practices, we encourage you to consult relevant occupational health guidelines or reach out to us directly.
The AIOH Silica Resource Hub by the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists offers comprehensive guidance on respirable crystalline silica, including best practices, air monitoring, and effective dust controls.
SafeWork NSW provides detailed information on crystalline silica hazards, exposure standards, and upcoming regulatory changes in Australia.
We appreciate your continued trust and are committed to transparency and safety in every aspect of our business. If you have any questions or need additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.
Our Products
We would love to see you visit our stores.
Unit 26 / 85-115 Alfred Rd Chipping Norton NSW 2170
1/5-7 Byres street, Newstead QLD 4006
T4 145 North St, Harlaxton QLD 4350
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