Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is a major workplace hazard, but understanding how much exposure is too much is essential for protecting workers. That’s where the Workplace Exposure Standard (WES) comes in.
What Is the WES for Silica?
In NSW, the WES for RCS is 0.05 mg/m³ over an 8-hour workday. This means that the average exposure of a worker during a standard shift should not exceed this level.
The WES is designed to protect workers from long-term health impacts like:
- Silicosis – irreversible lung scarring
- Chronic bronchitis
- Lung cancer
Even short-term exposures above this limit can be hazardous, especially if control measures are inadequate.
How Exposure Is Measured
Occupational hygienists measure silica exposure using:
- Personal air monitoring (worker-worn devices)
- Static air monitoring (fixed location sampling)
- Dust analysis by accredited laboratories
These results are compared to the WES to determine whether additional control measures are needed.
Staying Compliant
Employers conducting tasks that generate silica dust must:
- Identify high-risk silica work
- Implement control measures (wet methods, ventilation, PPE)
- Conduct regular air monitoring
- Maintain records of results and controls
Key Takeaway
The WES provides a clear benchmark to keep silica exposure within safe limits. Early assessment, monitoring, and control implementation by an occupational hygienist are critical to protecting workers’ health and ensuring compliance under NSW WHS laws.