Dust taskforce a positive step towards coordinated and strategic risk management

“The Coalition’s promise to establish a Dust Diseases Taskforce is a welcome and positive step that will help building and construction workplaces better tackle occupation lung disease,” Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia said.

“Building and construction workplaces have long sought a strategic approach to the prevention, early identification, control and management of dust diseases, particularly silicosis,” she said.

“Silicosis is an insidious disease and we need a coordinated approach to assess differences in exposure risks. This will put us in a better position to implement practical control and management measures. Exposure risks when working with engineered stone will be different to general on-site construction work and its essential the Taskforce undertakes exposure level monitoring and health testing of on-site construction workers,” Denita Wawn said.

“Such an approach is crucial in identifying the magnitude of risk and this will help our members provide the safest possible work environment for their workers.  The proposed Taskforce will also be able to take stock of the work already done and ensure that future resources are used in the most efficient and productive way,” she said.

“Gathering experts, researchers, regulators and industry in the one room is the best way to find lasting solutions and avoids unnecessary duplication and inconsistencies between jurisdictions,” Denita Wawn said.

“Master Builders welcomes the opportunity to participate in the taskforce with its goal of improving safety outcomes for workers on construction sites,” Denita Wawn said.