Silica is found in stone, rocks, and sand and is a major component of many construction materials including concrete, bricks, tiles, and mortar. When it is ‘fractured’ through processes such as stonecutting, drilling, and polishing, it creates a fine enough dust to reach deep inside the lungs when inhaled – which can lead to a respiratory condition called Silicosis.

In many instances, Silicosis cannot be controlled by engineering controls alone, so businesses need to be aware of what PPE and RPE is required to combat the risk.

The manufacturing sector in Australia employs around 900,000 workers and contributes around $100 billion to Australian GDP annually. Comprising Food and Drink, Transport, Machinery, and a host of other industries, the sector is on track for continued growth, so protecting these workers is essential.

Among the main injury hazards in the manufacturing sector, is exposure to hazardous substances, so it is vital that the right level of PPE is provided including chemical protective clothing, chemical resistant gloves, safety footwear and where there is an inhalation threat, respiratory protection.

The importance of selecting the right protective garments cannot be overstated. These essential components of workplace safety are not one-size fits all and must be carefully chosen to match the specific risks and applications at hand. Whether shielding from hazardous chemicals, flames, or static – making the correct choice of protective clothing is paramount to employee wellbeing.

A three-step process for selecting the right garments is outlined, emphasising the significance of a comprehensive risk assessment.

Selecting the right safety eyewear lenses can be a perplexing experience, often overwhelmed with a variety of options and technical jargon. From various lens coatings and tints to frame designs and EN ratings, navigating the array of choices can be challenging.

Riley continues to lead the market in product expertise, options, and consistency – and this below guide simplifies the lens selection process, outlining the best options for working in and outdoors, in a variety of applications.