SILICA IN THE WORKPLACE
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365-AXJ-01-iGDO © 2020, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | wsps.ca
WSPS.CA
Silica: Assessment and Control
How Can Workplace Exposure to Silica be Assessed?
The presence of crystalline silica in workplace air can be detected and measured using sophisticated
techniques. These are often needed when the potential for dust production exists. Generally, if dust
containing crystalline silica can be seen, an exposure problem is likely to exist. (It should be remembered
that respirable dust, which is only a portion of the total dust, cannot actually be seen by the unaided eye.
If airborne dust can be seen, however, a problem is likely to exist). The procedures for monitoring,
sampling and determining the concentrations of airborne silica in the workplace and a worker's exposure
to airborne silica must be in accordance with standard methods for workplace air sampling and analysis.
The assessment should establish a comprehensive picture of the following aspects of the operation:
Source of exposure
Cause of exposure
Number of workers exposed to each source
Length of exposure per day
Frequency of exposure
Concentration of respirable crystalline silica in the air
Effectiveness of existing control strategies and workplace practices
Performance capabilities of existing dust controls
Existing use of personal protective equipment
Methods and procedures used presently or to be used in future
Measures and procedures necessary to control exposure
The employer must consult with the joint health and safety committee in causing the assessment
to be made. The employer must also provide each member of the committee with a copy of the
assessment. WSPS has a publication entitled Workbook for Designated Substance Assessments to assist
you with conducting an assessment of silica in your workplace. The document is a free download from
our website.
