As the holiday season hits, all Tasmanians especially DIY renovators are being reminded of the dangers of silica dust as part of an awareness campaign by the WorkCover Tasmania Board and WorkSafe.
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Workers compensation claims related to silicosis in Tasmania have doubled since October 2018 with five claims made by workers engaged in manufacturing engineered stone benchtops of a total nine claims since 1990.
The Silica Dust Awareness Campaign aims to reduce silica dust related deaths in Tasmania, providing important reference and information material for tradespeople in the workplace and home renovations.
WorkCover Tasmania board member Dr Rob Walters said the hidden danger of silica dust could often be overlooked by those in uncontrolled environments, such as when undertaking DIY projects or home renovations.
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"It is vital all Tasmanians understand the potential deadly consequence of inhaling even a tiny amount of silica dust," Dr Walters said.
"Crystalline silica (silica) is found in sand, stone, concrete and mortar. It is also used to make a variety of products including composite stone used to fabricate kitchen and bathroom benchtops, bricks, tiles and some plastics.
"When products that contain silica are cut, crushed, drilled, polished, sawed or ground, dust particles are generated that are small enough to lodge deep in the lungs and cause illness or disease including silicosis."
For more information on the campaign, visit www.worksafe.tas.gov.au/silicasafe.