As members are aware under the Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) must ensure all workers who fall under the list of specified occupations and those who may be exposed to silica dust as part of their work, complete the Nationally accredited course 10830NAT – Course in Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention.
In the ACT the only accepted course is the Nationally accredited 10830NAT Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention training.
The circulation of fraudulent crystalline silica certificates is a serious concern, especially given the strengthened regulations in the ACT and NSW. Here’s a guide to help ensure authenticity and compliance during the induction process:
Key Checks for Crystalline Silica Certificates During Induction
- Accreditation Verification
- Ensure the certificate is issued by a regulator-approved training provider.
- Cross-check the provider against the list of approved bodies from WorkSafe ACT
- Certificate Details
- Confirm the full name of the participant matches official ID.
- Check the date of issue.
- Look for a unique certificate number or QR code for verification.
- Training Content
- The certificate should reflect training that covers:
- Health risks of respirable crystalline silica.
- Control measures (e.g., wet cutting, ventilation, PPE).
- Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) and Silica Risk Control Plans
- Regulatory References
- Certificates should reference compliance with Chapter 8A of the WHS Regulation 2017 or relevant state legislation
- Visual and Format Consistency
- Be wary of certificates with poor formatting, spelling errors, or missing logos.
- Compare with known authentic certificates from trusted providers.
- Digital Verification
- If available, use online portals or QR codes to verify the certificate directly with the issuing body.
- Worker Declaration
- Ask the worker to declare where and when they completed the training.
- Cross-check with the provider if in doubt.
What to Do If You Suspect a Fraudulent Certificate
- Report immediately to WorkSafe ACT or SafeWork NSW.
- Notify the workers employer and supervisor.
- Do not allow the worker to proceed with high-risk tasks until verification is complete.
- Document the incident and notify your safety manager or compliance officer.
For further information regarding your obligations under the Work Health and Safety legislation, contact the Workplace Relations Team at:
📞 (02) 6175 5900
📧 workplace@mba.org.au
