Raising the bar in battle against silica and asbestos

WHS News

Raising the bar in battle against silica and asbestos

South Australia has strengthened its response to asbestos and silica with the release of new State Strategy Plans and a combined website designed to protect workers, businesses and the community from these deadly hazards.

The South Australian Silica Plan 2024–2030 and the South Australian Asbestos Plan 2024–2030 outline the State Government’s strategic actions for the next five years. A new dedicated website provides a practical, public-facing hub containing up-to-date safety information.

The plans support the implementation of the Asbestos National Strategic Plan Phase Three 2024–30 and the Silica National Strategic Plan 2024–30 developed by the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency (ASSEA).

Asbestos and silica dust can cause serious long-term health conditions when inhaled. Clear guidance, coordinated action and accessible information are critical to preventing exposure and protecting South Australians at work and at home.

Priority areas of the plans include SafeWork SA:

• Running targeted enforcement campaigns to ensure businesses are complying with the ban on engineered stone
• Exploring partnerships with universities and researchers in Australia relating to respirable crystalline silica exposure and health monitoring
• Developing and promoting asbestos education strategies, with a focus on younger South Australians who may lack awareness due to age
• Supporting the development of a list of common trades where exposure to asbestos may present a significant risk

The expanded website is managed by SafeWork SA and provides a single, trusted source of information for anyone who may encounter these hazards.

Together, the plans and website strengthen South Australia’s response by pairing long-term strategic action with a central source of up-to-date, evidence-based guidance. This supports safer decisions and helps people meet their work health and safety obligations.

By providing clear, accurate and accessible information, SafeWork SA aims to guide tradespeople, business owners, licensed asbestos removalists, engineered stone workers, homeowners and anyone seeking reliable advice.
Key features of the website include:

• Hazard identification – practical guidance on recognising asbestos and silica risks in workplaces and homes
• Risk controls – clear advice on managing exposure and implementing safe systems of work
• Health monitoring – information on when monitoring is required and what it involves
• Licensing and training – details on who needs a licence, training pathways and competency expectations
• Disposal requirements – guidance on lawful and safe disposal of hazardous materials
• National reforms – updates reflecting ongoing changes to laws and industry practices

Asbestos has been classified as a known human carcinogen, and the use of asbestos has been banned in Australia since 2003. However, due to its widespread past use, large amounts of asbestos-containing materials remain in older buildings.

Engineered stone contains high levels of respirable crystalline silica. The use, supply and manufacture of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs has been banned in Australia since 1 July 2024.
SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell said:

“These new State Plans and the dedicated website mark a significant step forward in how South Australia is tackling the risks of asbestos and silica.
By bringing together clear, practical information with a strong strategic framework, we’re making it easier for people to understand the risks and take the right steps to protect themselves and others.
Exposure to asbestos and silica can have devastating, lifelong health impacts, which is why prevention is absolutely critical. These initiatives are about giving workers, businesses and the community the knowledge they need to identify hazards early and manage them safely.”

At Paragon WHS, we strongly encourage businesses and workers who may encounter silica or asbestos to review the new plans and use the dedicated website as a key resource. Understanding the risks, implementing effective controls, and meeting your WHS duties remain essential to preventing serious and fatal lung diseases.

If your organisation needs support with silica or asbestos risk management, training, or compliance, contact the Paragon WHS team for practical guidance.