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.
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.
WorkSafe approved HSR refresher Gendered Violence course provides an opportunity for HSRs and Deputy HSRs to revisit aspects of the HSR Initial OHS Training Course and refresh their knowledge of OHS in the workplace.
Under the OHS Act 2004 (section 67), all elected HSRs and deputy HSRs, after completing an initial course of training, have an entitlement for each year they hold office to attend a WorkSafe-approved HSR refresher OHS training course.
An employer, if requested, must allow the HSR/Deputy HSR to attend on paid time, pay the cost of the course and any other associated costs. Section 67 also allows HSRs to choose the course, in consultation with their employer.
This WorkSafe-approved training course will help HSRs and Deputy HSRs to understand and exercise their powers effectively. The training will provide HSRs and DHSRs with the confidence, skills and knowledge to represent their co-workers when raising health and safety concerns in relation to work-related gendered violence and to understand the health and safety issues arising from incidents of work-related gendered violence.
Course Content
The value of HSRs
Consultation in the workplace
Element of the legislative framework
Risk management overview.
Duty of care
Issue resolution.
The role of inspectors
Safety compliance
Who should attend?
Health & Safety Representatives and Deputy Health and Safety Representatives. Although HSRs are the primary audience; managers, supervisors, health and safety committee members and anyone else with an interest in health and safety may also benefit from attending this course.
Delivery
Course hours: 9am – 5pm Course length: 1 day
We can come to your workplace and deliver this course or you can visit out in house facilities.
Our Difference
Systec are leaders in OHS compliance working in the industry for over 25 years. Our courses provide relevant information, ongoing support, and efficient delivery.
Our professional trainers have experience in and out of the classroom providing the best experience for our students and empowering them to create safer workplaces.
