Once you know silica is on site, the next step is controlling it. In Part 2, Safety Man Dan walks through the hierarchy of controls for silica dust, from eliminating the task or substituting materials, to water suppression, on tool dust extraction and good ventilation. Respiratory protection still matters, but it is the last line of defence, not the first.
Key points
- Use the hierarchy of controls: eliminate or substitute first where you can.
- Water suppression keeps dust down at the point of cutting.
- On tool extraction captures dust before it reaches your breathing zone.
- Good ventilation helps clear airborne dust from the work area.
- Wear the right RPE, but never rely on a mask alone.
Want to go further? Admire runs a course on this topic: SafeWork NSW Compliant – Silica Awareness Training
Safety Man Dan is an AI character created by Admire Workplace Safety. These videos are general information only and are not a substitute for site specific advice, training or your legal obligations under WHS law.