NSW adopts new code of practice to reduce silicosis

NSW has adopted a new industry safety standard to protect workers from silica dust exposure.

The national Code of Practice – Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace took effect on 25 February 2022.

Minister for Small Business and Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said the new code of practice would play an important role in stopping workers from developing silicosis.

"Silicosis is a serious and debilitating lung disease that can be fatal," Ms Petinos said.

"The Occupational Lung Diseases in Australia 2006-2019 Report highlighted a substantial increase in engineered stone workers contracting silicosis, but NSW plans to reverse this trend and prevent workers getting sick from breathing in the harmful dust on the job.

"With regulatory reform and compliance activities supporting the adoption of the Code, employers and workers will now have a clear understanding of how to safely cut, grind, polish, and clean up when working with engineered stone products."

The code also provides guidance on regular air and health monitoring for workers, including lung screening

Read the full story on SafeWork NSW website.