Crystalline Silica Control Requirements in Tasmanian Construction

What it is

Tasmania adopted the national crystalline silica regulatory reforms through amendments to the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2022 (Tas) commencing 1 September 2024. WorkSafe Tasmania enforces the framework.

The framework

Regulations 529CA to 529CD of the WHS Regulations 2022 (Tas) set the crystalline silica control requirements. High-risk processes include cutting, grinding, drilling, sanding or polishing crystalline silica substances containing more than 1 per cent crystalline silica.

Silica risk control plan

A PCBU must prepare a written silica risk control plan for any high-risk crystalline silica process.

Air and health monitoring

Air monitoring where exposure cannot be verified below 0.05 mg/m3. Health monitoring for exposed workers.

Engineered stone ban

The 1 July 2024 national engineered stone ban applies in Tasmania.

Interaction with section 34C industrial manslaughter (2 October 2024)

Silica-related deaths can be prosecuted under section 34C industrial manslaughter (from 2 October 2024). Tasmania's 2024 reform package addressed both industrial manslaughter and the crystalline silica framework.

Absence of home warranty insurance context

Tasmania's absence of compulsory home warranty insurance places extra weight on the WHS silica framework as a construction industry health protection tool. Building Practitioners Board disciplinary action can follow silica framework breaches.

How Tasmania compares

TAS's 1 September 2024 reforms align with the national timeline and match the regulation numbering used in NSW, QLD, WA, SA, ACT and NT.