Program for Queensland workers dealing with silica dust

Queensland workers dealing with potentially deadly silica dust will now have access to a training and safety program designed to minimise and manage the risk of exposure.

Queensland workers dealing with potentially deadly silica dust will now have access

to a game-changing training and safety program designed to minimise and manage

the risk of exposure.

CFMEU state secretary Michael Ravbar today launched Queensland’s first fully

accredited silica dust training program designed to protect workers from exposure.

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WorkCover figures show one in five Queensland stonemasons has the lethal disease silicosis which can develop when silica dust enters the lungs – 186 have been diagnosed around the state with 26 having the most deadly form of progressive massive fibrosis.

Phil Beckett who was in the benchtop business for 15 years, working with engineered products and now has silicosis has welcomed the arrival of the program.

“People have died or been left with serious illness, this has been much needed,” he said.

Gold Coast man Anthony White died from silicosis in March last year.

The program, run by the CFMEU and registered training organisation Future Skills will

launch next month, with a special focus on workers in at-risk industry including

construction, and manufacturing where high silica content materials are used (such

as stone bench tops).

Phil Beckett has been diagnosed with silicosis. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

“This is a critically important health and safety initiative that will save lives in the

construction and related sectors,” Mr Ravbar said.

“Silicosis is a sinister and stealthy disease – the asbestosis of the 21st century – that

destroys lives and families, but most importantly it is preventable with the right

regulation, safe work practices and training,” Mr Ravbar said.

“This course will provide workers with the knowledge and skills to help prevent

exposure and save lives.”

The silica dust training program delivers on a resolution passed by the CFMEU’s

previous Queensland & NT delegates convention, and builds on years of the union

campaigning for tighter regulation and controls.