Is silica dust only a problem on large construction sites?

No. Silica dust is common in small renovation and owner-builder projects as well. Cutting, drilling, grinding or demolishing concrete, brick, tiles and other masonry materials can generate hazardous respirable silica dust.

Can you see silica dust?

Not always. The smallest respirable silica particles are often invisible to the naked eye but can still be inhaled deep into the lungs, making dust controls essential.

What materials commonly contain silica?

Common building materials that may contain crystalline silica include concrete, bricks, mortar, tiles, grout, sandstone, render and engineered stone.

Is silica dust the same as asbestos?

No. Silica dust and asbestos are different hazards with different health risks and control measures. Both require appropriate management to protect workers and others on site.

How can owner-builders reduce silica dust exposure?

Owner-builders can reduce exposure by using wet cutting methods, on-tool dust extraction, HEPA-rated vacuum cleaners, good ventilation, appropriate respiratory protection and careful planning before work begins.

Which renovation tasks create the most silica dust?

High-risk tasks include cutting concrete, chasing brick walls, drilling into concrete, removing tiles and grout, grinding surfaces, demolishing masonry and working with engineered stone.

Do owner-builders need silica awareness training?

While legal requirements vary depending on the work being undertaken, silica awareness training helps owner-builders recognise hazards, understand dust control measures and make safer decisions throughout their project.

Why is silica dust dangerous?

Respirable crystalline silica can lodge deep in the lungs and repeated exposure may lead to serious diseases including silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney disease and reduced lung function.