By Lynda Myer
With intention of silica dust exposure in the tunneling and construction industry, the New South Wales government has commissioned a six-month campaign.
As the main cause of silicosis, manufactured stone ranked in first stage, whereas workers can also be exposed to silica dust during tunneling, demolition and excavation work, or from uncontrolled cutting, grinding and drilling of common building materials including bricks, concrete, sandstone and tiles.
In order to hampering a false sense of security ahead of the coming ban on manufactured stone in NSW, SafeWork NSW inspectors are due to target these areas.
Inspectors will ensure businesses are compliant with regulations and speak to workers about managing the risk of exposure to silica dust.
Considering its effects on the lungs, silicosis is a deadly disease that is becoming increasingly prevalent in Australian workers, especially those in the engineered stone industry.
The determined penalties for employers, who are not complied with these notices is up to A$130,000 (£68,000).
The government also recently passed laws to establish a silica worker register, to track and trace exposed workers and enable early intervention.
According to minister for work health and safety Sophie Cotsis:”This campaign is to protect workers who may be exposed to the deadly risks of silica dust and will help ensure safer workplaces in NSW. Exposure to silica dust is an incredibly serious issue for workers in a range of industries and we must learn from the hard lessons of asbestos.”
