Workers in Queensland will now have some of the most robust protections in the country in terms of silicosis prevention thanks to a new code introduced today by the Palaszczuk Government.
Minister for Industrial Relations, Grace Grace, said that the new codes of practice would ensure safe workplaces.
“The Palaszczuk Government has led the nation when it comes to protecting workers, and these two new codes follow in that proud tradition,” Ms Grace said.
Minister Grace said the code of practice to tackle silica dust exposure in the construction industry was also an Australian first.
“The need to protect workers from silicosis in other industries, particularly construction, became clear while Queensland’s nation-leading stone benchtop code was being developed in 2019,” Ms Grace said.
“That is why this code will apply to all construction work in Queensland, as well as the manufacturing of materials such as bricks, blocks, tiles, mortar, and concrete.
“The new code sets out effective dust controls to prevent or minimise exposure in the first place.
“This will protect workers from dangerous levels of silica dust and will save lives.”
Minister Grace said the landmark regulation changes and codes of practice were developed through an extensive consultation process with employer organisations, unions, leading academics and community groups.
“I thank all those involved for helping to make Queensland workers safer.”
The Managing the Risk of Psychosocial Hazards at Work Code of Practice will commence on 1 April 2023. The Managing Respirable Crystalline Silica Dust Exposure in Construction and the Manufacturing of Construction Elements Code of Practice will commence on 1 May 2023. The office of Ms Grace has confirmed that it will work with industry groups to provide education sessions ahead of the commencement dates of the codes.