Media Releases
New Policy to Combat Lung Disease Silicosis
Thursday 5 June 1997
The Occupational Safety and Health Service of the Department of Labour are enforcing a new Policy on Abrasive Blasting from July 1 this year to help in the prevention of the lung disease Silicosis.
The nationwide policy intends to address industry confusion about the standards for the use of sand containing free silica to ensure appropriate measures are taken to prevent worker exposure to Silicosis.
Silicosis can be caused by exposure to silica and usually results in symptoms similar to Asbestosis. As a restrictive lung disease, Silicosis reduces oxygen diffusion and makes breathing more difficult as the condition worsens.
"The new Abrasive Blasting Policy stipulates that all abrasive blasting shall be carried out using a non-silica abrasive medium," said OSH Dunedin Branch Manager, Andrew Reddie. "In practicable terms sand with a silica content of less that 5% is considered silica-free. Production of proof will be required with the abrasive medium to ascertain the percentage of silica it contains."
"In respect of the health and safety of workers, the policy requires an awareness of the hazards associated with abrasive blasting, such as lead-based paint work and the wearing of standard-approved personal protective gear, said Mr Reddie. "The employer will also be required to monitor the health of workers exposed to the hazards of abrasive blasting."
Under the Health and Safety in Employment Regulations 1995, employers must notify the nearest OSH office before abrasive blasting work commences.
"The policy has been developed to achieve consistent health and safety controls through out the country and in such a way that individual contractors are not unfairly treated or given commercial advantage over a competitor," Mr Reddie said.
