Stronger silica dust protections for workers take effect
New laws that came into effect on 1 September will provide additional protections for workers exposed to silica dust.
These news laws means all workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust — not just those working with engineered stone — will be able to demand multiple safety control measures such as PPE, water suppression, on-tool extraction systems, and local exhaust ventilation systems.
Workplace safety ministers from all of the nation’s states and territories met earlier this year and agreed to the new laws, which have already been in place in Victoria for some time.
A highly-publicised union campaign last year helped to secure a ban on so-called ‘killer stone’ used in kitchens around the country. But these new laws mean an additional 600,000 workers in sectors as varied as road and rail tunnelling, civil construction, quarries, mines and road maintenance will also have protection.
According to the Australian Workers’ Union, if the work being undertaken is high risk, workers can now demand a silica risk control plan from their employer, which will require work to cease if not followed. Companies will be fined if they are found to be in breach of these provisions. There is also a training requirement for workers.
Paul Farrow, Australian Workers’ Union National Secretary, said he was proud the union’s fight to protect workers in these sectors has paid off.
“There are over 600,000 workers exposed to deadly crystalline silica dust; engineered stone benchtops are only part of the story,” Farrow said.
“We welcome state and territory ministers’ action on this in conjunction with Safe Work Australia to protect workers from silica dust.
“For years, the AWU has been campaigning for legislation to protect workers — this dust is present in hundreds of worksites across Australia and employers have turned a blind eye to the health and safety of their workers.
“We have members right now in our nation’s major cities and regional areas building crucial public infrastructure for Australians to enjoy; now these hard-working men and women can enjoy protections at work against this deadly dust.
“The AWU is urging state governments to adequately resource safety regulators to police the new regulations.”
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