Work with products and materials containing crystalline silica

Crystalline silica is a natural mineral found in common construction materials like engineered stone, sandstone, bricks, tiles, and concrete. When these materials are cut, ground, drilled, or polished, fine respirable dust is released that can cause serious and permanent lung disease. This unit teaches you how to identify products and materials that contain crystalline silica, understand the health risks involved, and apply the correct control measures to protect yourself and those around you. This unit suits tradespeople, labourers, and construction workers who regularly work with silica-containing materials — including stonemasons, tilers, bricklayers, concreters, and kitchen or bathroom renovators. It is also relevant if you supervise workers in these trades or are returning to a role where silica dust exposure is part of the job. No prior formal qualifications are needed, though some experience working on construction or renovation sites will help you relate to the practical content. After completing this unit, you will be able to read safety data sheets and product information to identify silica content, select and use the right personal protective equipment, follow safe work method statements specific to silica dust risks, and carry out tasks like wet cutting or on-tool extraction in line with current workplace health and safety requirements. You will also understand your legal obligations and when to escalate concerns to a supervisor or health and safety representative.