WHS Regulation 2025: Silica Worker Register Deadline

The WHS Regulation 2025: Silica Worker Register Deadline is approaching fast. From 1 October 2025, businesses involved in high-risk crystalline silica processing must comply with these new requirements.

Major changes to the Work Health and Safety Regulation came into effect on 22 August 2025. Most of these reforms are already part of compliance requirements for Australian businesses.

One key element, the Silica Worker Register, was delayed to give industry more time to prepare. This requirement will now take effect on 1 October 2025.

What is the Silica Worker Register?

The Register applies to businesses undertaking high-risk crystalline silica processing, including:

  • Tunnelling

  • Cutting

  • Grinding

  • Polishing materials containing crystalline silica

If your business carries out these activities, you are required to register affected workers.

Why is this important?

Silica exposure is a well-known health risk. The new Register is part of the broader WHS reforms designed to strengthen protections for workers and give regulators greater oversight.

Failure to comply may result in penalties.

What should businesses do now?

If your business undertakes high-risk crystalline silica processes, you should:

  1. Identify whether the requirement applies to your workers.

  2. Register affected workers before the 1 October 2025 deadline.

  3. Review your WHS systems and processes to ensure compliance with the wider regulation changes.

Preparing for the WHS Regulation 2025: Silica Worker Register Deadline

The upcoming WHS Regulation 2025: Silica Worker Register Deadline means businesses undertaking high-risk crystalline silica processing must act now. Identifying affected workers, ensuring health monitoring, and updating WHS systems are all critical steps.

Red Insight can support your organisation with:

  • On-site WHS audits and inspections

  • Compliance system reviews

  • Worker registration and reporting processes

  • Training and advisory support for your teams

Download our Client Notice – Important WHS Compliance Update for full details, or contact us today to prepare before the 1 October 2025 deadline.

Not sure how the regulations affect your business?

Contact Us

Carrie Loughnan
Business Development Manager
carrie@redinsight.com.au
0408 251 843