Silica Awareness

Empower | Prevent | Respond

Main Learning Points

Course Description

This Silica Awareness course is designed to educate workers about the hazards associated with respirable crystalline silica, a common mineral found in materials such as sand, stone, concrete, and mortar. This course provides participants with essential knowledge on identifying silica-containing materials, understanding the health risks of exposure, and learning the best practices for controlling and minimizing exposure in the workplace. Participants will learn about the Occupational Health and Safety regulations and standards related to silica, including exposure limits, engineering controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE). The course also covers methods for assessing silica exposure, medical surveillance requirements, and the importance of proper housekeeping practices.

Course Content

Module 1: What is Silica?

• The Basics
• Types of Silica
• Silica and Legislation
• Silica as a Hazard
• Hazard Assessments
• WHMIS
• Sources of Silica in the Workplace

Module 2: How does Silica effect the body?

• Routes of entry
• How silica causes harm
• Consequences of silica exposure
• Calculating risk

Module 3: Methods of Controlling Silica Exposure

• Controlling silica
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Respiratory Protective Equipment
• Health Surveillance

Course Duration

30 Minutes

Course Completion

Upon completion of the course, the course will generate a digital certificate of completion that can be downloadable in PDF form. Participants must complete a course evaluation survey in order to receive their certificate.