As of 1 September 2024, regulations regarding silicosis prevention in construction ativities (including tiling) are set to change in Australia. For the most part, this means that what were once “advisories” become regulations. Now that they aren’t just a “good idea”, there are consequences for ignoring them. It’s a change from “should” to “must”. These regulations apply to working with any material that contains over 1.0% crystalline silica content. That includes just about all tiles.
Regulations
The core guidance for “a person conducting a business or undertaking” (PCBU) that needs to operate under the new regulations for working with a crystalline silica substance (CSS) is the Safe Work Australia (SWA) publication “Working with crystalline silica substances: Guidance for PCBUs” (WCSS).
This lays out the requirements for someone like a tiler as regards reducing the risk from cutting and drilling tiles. (PCBUs include sole traders.)
Do these regulations apply to tilers?
Yes, these regulations do apply specifically to tilers. The guide specifically includes CSS that are “bricks, blocks, pavers, tiles and mortar”, and activities that include: “The use of power tools or mechanical plant to carry out an activity involving the crushing, cutting, grinding, trimming, sanding, abrasive polishing or drilling of a CSS”.
Assessing risk level: high or low?
At first glance, it might seem evident that just about all tiling work is going to be low risk. When you compare it with, say, concrete grinding or tunnelling, the risk levels just don’t match at all.
That said, tiling is not completely excluded from high risk. SWA setsout these three considerations for assessing high risk work:
- it is carried out for long durations, multiple times a day or week
- multiple tasks involving processing of a CSS are undertaken concurrently in the same work area
- the proportion of crystalline silica content of the CSS is high and processing results in the generation of significant amounts of RCS.
SWA does make reference to the percentage of silica in tile products being of concern.
An additional factor to consider is the thickness of tiles: a 11mm thick tile will produce more RCS than a 6mm thick tile when cut with a grinder.
Other factors should also be taken into consideration. Working outdoors, in an unenclosed area, reduces risk. The amount of tile cutting is another consideration.
SECTION 4.3: Compliance
When it comes to any risk associated with RCS, what SWA want tilers and others to understand is the concept of “controlled” work. This means that the risk has to be assessed, and measures are put in place to mitigate any risk from RCS. At the beginning of Section 4.3 SWA ranks the protective measures that can be used. It divides these into two sections. The first section lists five options, which include:
- an effective wet dust suppression method
- an effective on-tool extraction system
- an effective local exhaust ventilation system.
The second section lists just “respiratory protective equipment”, essentially just masks. SWA states that the main requirement is to implement one of the options in the first section. The second section is backup.
The WCSS states: “Personal protective equipment is the least effective method for controlling risks. However, it can be effective at minimising residual risk when used in conjunction with higher order controls, or if it is not reasonably practicable to implement higher order control measures.”
4 Main ways to stop Silicosis
Masks
The three basic types of mask are: disposable (P2 or P3); half-mask re-usable; and powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs). On a cost basis, half-masks with replaceable filters work best, and are also easier to fit tightly. PAPRs are the most expensive, but also the most comfortable.
Wet Process
For tilers, wet process includes wet-cut saws and grinders with spray attachments. Crystalline silica is hydrophilic, which means it absorbs water easily.
The droplets from the spray contact the particles, they become heavier than air, and fall.
Dry Vacuum
Dry vacuum systems typically rely on a shroud over the grinding/ cutting area, hooked up to a vacuum that starts when the tool starts. Tilers can usually use the less-expensive “M” class dust extractors.
Ventilation
If working silica products in an enclosed space, all workers in the space would need to be protected. Working outdoors, such as under a carport, ensures minimum cross-contamination.
Information sourced from Tile Today Magazine, Issue 122 (page 25-36) here at the link: https://tiletoday.au/issues/tt122.pdf
