Silica Dust Clean-Up Services
Silica dust, often called “the new asbestos,” is found in concrete, stone, tiles, and other common building materials. When cut or drilled, it releases microscopic respirable crystalline silica (RCS) particles that, if inhaled, can cause irreversible lung disease.
Since September 2024, new WHS regulations in Queensland require all PCBUs to meet stricter compliance standards for managing silica risks.
We provide professional silica dust remediation across Australia. Our team specialises in high-risk clean-ups that protect both people and property while delivering full compliance with Australia’s latest work health and safety (WHS) requirements.
Why Silica Dust Clean-Up Matters
Health Risk
RCS exposure can cause silicosis, lung cancer, and other life-
long respiratory diseases.
Legal Compliance
Exceeding the 0.05 mg/m³ WES limit must be reported under WHS laws.
Reputation Responsibility:
Managing silica hazards shows leadership
and protects staff, tenants, and contractors.
Our Approach to Silica Dust Clean-Up
We follow a structured, fully compliant process grounded in the WHS Regulation and
the national hierarchy of controls:
1
Isolation & Engineering Controls
- Sealing off work zones and HVAC systems
- Using H-class HEPA vacuums and industrial HEPA filtration units to create
negative pressure - Preventing dust migration into occupied areas
2
Systematic Cleaning
- HEPA vacuuming of all surfaces (ceilings, plant equipment, floors etc.).
- Wet or dry microfibre wiping depending on site and electrical conditions.
- Strict waste handling: all dust and debris double bagged and sealed for
disposal.
3
Administrative Controls
- Job-specific Silica Risk Control Plans and updated SWMS
- Clear communication with facility managers and workers onsite
- Restricted access to contained areas
4
Worker Protection (PPE as the Last Line of Defence)
- Technicians wear full PPE, including fit-tested PAPR respirators with P3
filters. - All staff complete VET-accredited silica safety training in line with new
national requirements. - Respirators maintained and compliant with AS/NZS 1715:2009 and AS/NZS
1716:2012 standards.
5
Air & Health Monitoring
- As part of the risk assessment, conduct continuous air monitoring to
determine the risk and verify that appropriate control measures are in place. - Written monitoring reports provided to clients for compliance records.
- Health monitoring (lung function testing) offered to any workers with potential
exposure.
Why Choose NLR Restoration?
- With decades of experience in hazardous remediation, we’re trusted across
Queensland for: - Full compliance with the latest WHS silica regulations (2024)
- Minimised disruption to your operations during clean-up
- Independent verification and monitoring reports for peace of mind
- Highly trained technicians with accredited silica safety qualifications
How we can help
We can provide consultation and inspection services to let you know how many filtration units you need. You can pick up the equipment for hire if you prefer.
Please contact us for further information or see relevant information about equipment hire.
