Construction

Concrete cutting, grinding, and drilling generate respirable quartz dust. Engineered stone (>90% crystalline silica) is the highest-risk material. Several Australian states have banned dry cutting of engineered stone. NSW Silica Worker Register applies to high-risk construction tasks.

Pre-demolition surveys and air monitoring during removal of asbestos-containing materials in buildings constructed before 1990. Clearance monitoring required before re-occupation. Licensed removalists required for friable and non-friable ACM above threshold quantities.

Power tools, concrete saws, jackhammers, and heavy equipment generate noise levels frequently exceeding 100 dB(A). Personal dosimetry required across multiple SEGs on construction sites.

Structural steel welding and cutting on construction sites. Field conditions with limited ventilation increase exposure risk. MIG and stick welding on mild and galvanised steel.

Typical Worker Groups

Common similar exposure groups (SEGs) assessed in this industry.

Regulatory Context

Construction work is regulated under the WHS Act 2011 and WHS Regulations with specific provisions for construction work (Chapter 6). The Code of Practice for Managing Risks of Hazardous Chemicals and the Code of Practice for How to Safely Remove Asbestos apply. SafeWork NSW and equivalent state regulators actively enforce silica exposure standards on construction sites.