The New Silica Code of Practice: August 2025 Update
Australia’s fight against silica-related diseases has taken another big step forward. In August 2025, Safe Work Australia released the updated Model Code of Practice: Managing Risks of Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) in the Workplace — and it’s changing how businesses manage silica exposure across all industries, not just engineered stone.
If your workplace cuts, drills, grinds, or crushes materials containing silica, these updates matter to you. Here’s what you need to know.
1. It’s No Longer Just About Engineered Stone
The biggest shift? The Code now applies to all materials containing 1% or more crystalline silica — including concrete, bricks, tiles, mortar, natural stone, and ceramics.
That means construction sites, manufacturing facilities, and even workshops all fall under the same safety expectations that once only applied to engineered stone.
2. “Controlled Processing” Is Now a Must
Under the new Code, no processing of crystalline silica substances (CSS) — such as cutting, grinding, or drilling — can occur unless it’s controlled.
This means using measures like:
- Wet cutting methods
- On-tool dust extraction
- Physical isolation or local exhaust ventilation
PPE alone isn’t enough. It’s now the last line of defence, not the first.
3. High-Risk Tasks Come with Higher Duties
PCBUs (Persons Conducting a Business or Undertaking) must now assess whether any silica-related task is high risk — based on the material type, how it’s processed, and how much dust is produced.
If you’re unsure, the Code says to treat it as high risk.
And for all high-risk activities, a Silica Risk Control Plan (SRCP) is now mandatory. This plan should outline:
- The task and its hazards
- The control measures in place
- How air and health monitoring will be carried out
- Who is responsible for implementation and review
4. Monitoring and Health Surveillance Are StrengthenedTwo key areas now require greater attention:
- Air monitoring: If you don’t know your exposure levels, or your controls may not be effective, you must test the air.
- Health monitoring: Required for all workers undertaking high-risk silica work. This can include lung function tests and chest X-rays to detect early signs of silicosis.
These aren’t just box-ticking exercises — they’re lifesaving steps that can detect problems early and protect your workforce.
5. Controls Must Follow the Hierarchy
The Code reinforces what safety professionals already know — the hierarchy of controls still rules.
Eliminate or substitute the hazard wherever possible. Use engineering controls before relying on administrative measures or PPE.
The new Code goes further, outlining practical examples like using materials with lower silica content, or switching to scoring and snapping instead of power cutting.
6. Keep Records and Review Regularly
Documentation now carries more weight. PCBUs are expected to record risk assessments, training, air and health monitoring results, and control reviews — and update them whenever conditions change or new information emerges.
Regular reviews help ensure your control measures stay effective as tools wear, processes change, or new technologies become available.
Why It Matters
Silicosis is entirely preventable — yet cases continue to emerge across Australia. The updated 2025 Code isn’t about more paperwork; it’s about saving lives by closing the gap between policy and practice.
By tightening definitions, requiring clearer control plans, and expanding coverage beyond engineered stone, Safe Work Australia has made it clear: every workplace that handles crystalline silica has a duty to protect its people.
How SafetyCo Can Help
At SafetyCo, we help businesses stay compliant and confident. From fit-testing and monitoring programs to silica risk assessments and tailored safety management systems — we’re here to make compliance practical and achievable. Get in touch with us today to see how you can stay ahead of the cruve.