Understanding Silica Exposure in the Flooring Trades: Risks and Solutions
Silica exposure is a significant concern in the flooring industry, as workers frequently handle materials that contain this naturally occurring mineral. Silica, found in substances like sand, stone, and concrete, is integral to many flooring products. However, when disturbed, it can release fine dust particles that pose serious health risks to workers. This article explores the dangers of silica exposure in the flooring trades and highlights practical solutions to mitigate these risks and protect workers’ health.
Silica, or silicon dioxide, is a mineral present in materials such as granite, quartz, and concrete. During activities like cutting, grinding, drilling, or sanding, fine dust particles containing silica can be released into the air. Inhalation of this respirable crystalline silica is hazardous, as it can cause long-term health problems. Among these risks are lung diseases, including silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even kidney disease.
Workers in the flooring trade are particularly at risk of silica exposure during certain tasks. Cutting or grinding tiles, stone, or concrete generates considerable dust, as does sanding and finishing hardwood floors. Demolition work, such as removing old flooring materials, can also disturb silica-containing products, leading to airborne dust.
To safeguard workers from silica exposure, adopting several preventive measures is essential. Wet methods, such as using water to suppress dust during cutting or grinding, can significantly reduce airborne silica. Ensuring proper ventilation in work areas, using dust control tools like saws with vacuum attachments, and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators are critical. Additionally, training workers on silica risks and conducting regular health monitoring are vital steps in maintaining workplace safety. By prioritizing these strategies, the flooring industry can minimize silica-related health risks and foster a safer working environment.
Systec provides free services through the OHS essentials program for small to medium sized businesses that employ up to 60 people.
Many enquiries we have around how HSR’s contribute in the workplace.
In Victoria, Health and safety representatives have the power under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 to raise concerns and request improvements within the workplace.
After undertaking a WorkSafe Approved 5 day Health and Safety Representative Course, HSR’s leave with the skills to spot hazards undertake risk assessments, consult with management and employees to ensure that issues are dealt with in a timely and constructive manner.
HSRs act as a bridge between employees and management, making it easier for workers to share safety concerns. This promotes a culture where safety is important. When employees feel their safety is a priority, they are more positive and productive. Fewer accidents also mean fewer people miss work, helping the business run smoothly without interruptions.
When there are fewer injuries, businesses pay less for workers’ compensation and insurance. Businesses with good safety records are also less likely to face legal issues related to safety violations. By acting proactively and identifying risks early, HSRs help reduce the financial impact of workplace accidents, making it a smart investment for businesses.
In the long term, having an HSR helps businesses in Victoria build a strong focus on safety culture, with ongoing improvements in health and safety practices. HSRs provide feedback on policies to keep safety measures up to date. They also play an important role in emergency planning, ensuring that workers know what to do if something goes wrong. Overall, HSRs help create safer, more efficient workplaces that comply with Victoria’s strict safety regulations.
Get in touch with us for more information about health and safety representative training.
Training employees on new equipment ensures they can use the equipment correctly and reduces the likelihood of issues arising when activating the emergency response plan in confined spaces. Well-trained employees can respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies, potentially saving lives and reducing the extent of injuries. This preparedness is crucial in high-risk environments, where quick and correct responses can make a significant difference.
Systec spent a day with our valued clients, Ventia, to conduct training on new equipment vital to their confined space operations. Ventia plays a crucial role in maintaining our health and hospital infrastructure around the clock, often working in challenging environments such as pits, shafts, and service tunnels. Their work ensures that essential services continue running smoothly, making the safety and efficiency of their operations paramount.
The training focused on scenario-based drills and hands-on practice to ensure that all employees were comfortable using the new equipment safely. These practical exercises enhanced their communication and coordination skills, which are essential during emergency situations. By simulating real-life scenarios, the training helped employees become more adept at handling potential emergencies, ensuring they can perform effective rescue operations.
This comprehensive training approach not only improved the technical skills of Ventia’s employees but also boosted their confidence in using the equipment. Ensuring that employees are well-prepared for confined space emergencies enhances overall workplace safety, reduces the risk of incidents, and underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
If you have new equipment and need to undertake training, get it done today to ensure your workers are not put on the spot when it comes time to activate the emergency response plan.
For over a decade, Systec has proudly served Werribee Racing Club by providing asbestos survey and testing services for their facility upgrade projects. Werribee Racing Club has been upgrading its facilities to enhance user and punter experience including removal of redundant buildings and replacing them with new and upgraded facilities.
Systec has played a crucial role in this process by conducting thorough hazardous substances surveys and testing, ensuring every phase of their project, to ensure that Management and workers both can identify which materials could pose health risks.
Our process includes detailed initial surveys, accurate sampling and testing, and comprehensive risk management. We provide clear reports and recommendations for safe removal or management of asbestos, tailored to each project’s needs, especially during the critical demolition stages.
As the club continues to improve its facilities, we are proud to support them in their endeavors building a safer, better future for Werribee Racing Club and its community. F
or more information on our asbestos survey and testing services, and to see how we can help with your facility upgrade projects, visit our website or contact us today.
Systec spent the day with our client Hach Pacific conducting Fire Suppression and Spill Containment Training. Our aim was to equip Hach Pacific’s employees with the skills and knowledge needed to handle emergencies effectively and safely.
We had a look at their emergency response procedures and conducted a gap analysis with the team before venturing out to make some flames and obviously extinguisher them.
Our fire suppression and spill containment training focused on essential topics. We taught employees about different fire types and how to extinguish them properly, providing hands-on practice with various fire extinguishers. We also covered evacuation procedures and fire prevention techniques, emphasizing the importance of clear escape routes and safe storage of flammable materials and removing waste and redundant chemicals from their warehouse. These practical sessions aimed to build confidence and readiness among the participants as not everyone is comfortable with fire and the effects that it can cause, so this was a great confidence boost for the team.
Simultaneously, the spill kit response training was tailored to meet the specific needs of Hach Pacific’s operations. We trained employees to identify and assess chemical spills, contain them effectively, and use spill kits correctly. The training included clear instructions on cleaning up spills and disposing of contaminated materials properly. We also stressed the importance of reporting spills promptly for effective follow-up and prevention.
The training had a positive impact, with Hach Pacific’s employees showing increased confidence and a stronger commitment to safety. The improved teamwork and safety culture we observed were especially rewarding. At Systec, we are proud to have contributed to Hach Pacific’s safety efforts and look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure a safe working environment for their team.
Next with Hach we will be focusing on individual chemical response needs as they stock around 2000 different types of chemicals and supply internationally.
The prohibition on using engineered stone under the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations takes effect today and applies to all Victorian employers, regardless of previous contracts. Violations will face strict enforcement, including prosecution and fines. WorkSafe Executive Director Sam Jenkin announced that inspectors would be ensuring compliance, with unannounced visits to manufacturers and processors to verify the use of permitted products.
Inspectors will require information on the products being used and may take samples for testing. Engineered stone, defined as an artificial product with one percent or more crystalline silica, is now regulated. Exceptions allow for the removal, repair, or modification of pre-July 1 installations, provided they meet control requirements. Disposal of excess stock is allowed, and supply to jurisdictions with transition periods is permitted.
Employers must continue providing information, training, and health monitoring for employees exposed to crystalline silica. New WorkSafe guidance is available, and independent legal advice is recommended for uncertain cases. The “Silica dust can be deadly” campaign will run throughout July to raise awareness of the ban and the risks of silica dust.
