Silica Toolbox Talk Handout
BENEFITS
Workers in various trades and industries, including mining, tunnelling, quarrying, masonry, metal foundries and ship and bridge repair, can be exposed to crystalline silica dust. Crystalline silica is a mineral that can cause lung cancer and silicosis when inhaled. As a result, employers have a duty under the OHS laws to protect workers from exposure to it. To fulfil that duty, you should educate workers exposed to this hazard.
HOW TO USE THE TOOL
Give this handout to workers as part of a safety talk to educate them on the hazards posed by exposure to silica dust. Whoever gives the talk, whether a supervisor, safety coordinator, foreman, training provider, etc., should cover the hazards of silica dust, safe work procedures for work that may generate such dust and proper use of appropriate PPE.
ADDITIONAL TOOLS
The Center for Construction Research and Training
Spot the Safety Violation: Prevent Exposure to Silica Dust
Model Crystalline Silica Exposure Plan
Fact Sheet — What Is Crystalline Silica’