This 16-page Working With Silica Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) provides the typical safety controls and possible hazards associated with cutting, drilling, grinding, sanding, blasting, and handling silica-containing materials such as concrete, tiles, bricks, fibre cement, mortar, engineered stone, and natural stone.
 
Pre-filled and ready to use, this SWMS has been created by WHS experts to help you meet your WHS obligations and maintain compliance with Australian safety laws. It is suitable for all states and territories and comes fully editable in Microsoft Word, making it quick and simple to customise with your company name, logo, and site-specific details.
 
Who This SWMS Is For
This SWMS is ideal for businesses, contractors, and trades involved in tasks where silica dust may be generated, including:
Construction and demolition companies
Concrete cutting and drilling contractors
Bricklaying and masonry businesses
Engineered stone fabricators and installers
Tiling and flooring contractors
Excavation and civil works companies
Sandblasting and abrasive blasting providers
General building, maintenance, and renovation services
 
What This SWMS Covers
This SWMS includes comprehensive safety procedures, hazard controls, and compliance measures:
1. Planning and Site Preparation
Conducting site-specific risk assessments and inductions before work begins
Ensuring workers complete silica dust awareness training
Identifying hazards, underground services, and public access areas
Establishing exclusion zones, signage, and barricades for public safety
Engaging accredited underground service locators where required
2. Tool, Plant, and Equipment Safety
Selecting the correct tools for cutting, drilling, grinding, and dust control
Inspecting equipment daily for compliance and safe operation
Using H-class vacuums where practicable (M-class if necessary)
Avoiding prohibited practices like dry sweeping, high-pressure air, and uncontrolled abrasive tools
3. Dust Suppression and Exposure Controls
Applying continuous water delivery during cutting or grinding
Using additional measures including:
On-tool vacuum extraction
Local exhaust ventilation (LEV)
Wet suppression techniques (sprays, foams, gels)
Isolating work areas or using enclosed cabins with filtered air
Prohibiting dry cutting engineered stone without permits
Fit-testing for P2 respirators where respiratory protection is required
4. PPE and Worker Protection
Mandatory PPE: P2 respirators, disposable overalls, gloves, safety glasses, boots, and high-vis clothing
Guidance on correct PPE fit testing, use, maintenance, and disposal
5. Cleaning, Decontamination, and Waste Management
Safe cleaning methods: wet sweeping, H-class vacuuming, low-pressure water cleaning
Avoiding high-risk methods like dry sweeping and compressed air unless risk-managed
Proper decontamination of tools, PPE, and work areas
Double-bagging dust waste in 200μm-thick sealed bags and disposing of it at licensed facilities
6. Emergency and Incident Response
Procedures for incidents, dust exposure, or equipment failure
Use of dust kits, first aid kits, and containment sheeting
Emergency activation protocols, including evacuation and first-aid response
7. Public and Environmental Safety
Managing risks to nearby properties, pedestrians, and shared workspaces
Erecting compliant signage and exclusion zones (AS1319 standards)
Preventing environmental contamination through proper dust control measures
 
What’s Included in Your Template
Step-by-step SWMS with detailed safety controls
HRCW selection table 
Comprehensive risk assessment guidelines and matrix
PPE requirements and usage instructions
Plant and equipment list
Appendix A: Safety Control System for Silica Dust Exposure Flowchart
Relevant legislation, codes of practice, and standards
Worker sign-off sheet for training and competency verification
 
 
This Working With Silica SWMS is an essential tool for protecting workers, contractors, and the public from the risks associated with silica dust exposure. Designed for quick editing and simple integration into your safety management system, it helps you stay compliant, prepared, and audit-ready.
 
Perfect for tenders, safety audits, and day-to-day operations, this SWMS saves you time and effort while ensuring safe, controlled work practices.
 
Get your Working With Silica SWMS today and start using it instantly!