National Asbestos Awareness Week 2023 runs from the 20th to the 26th of November. It is a week where we raise awareness for the very real risks the Australian public still face with Asbestos and its related diseases. This National Asbestos Awareness Week marks the 20-year anniversary since Asbestos was completely banned in Australia. Throughout this week, we will reflect on the progress that has occurred since the ban, but also highlight the threats asbestos can still pose to us today.
Trade occupations represent nearly 60% of serious workers’ compensation claims in Australia despite only making up about 30% of the workforce.
Although it’s not the most commonly contracted, mesothelioma is still one of the most fatal asbestos-related cancers with a mortality rate of 2.9 deaths per 100,000 population.
Given the nature of the work of most tradies, they’re among those most likely to be exposed to potentially harmful substances and susceptible to developing occupational diseases.
The World Health Organisation’s International Agency for Research on Cancer has officially declared firefighting a “cancer-causing profession”.
About 5000 people are diagnosed with a work-related cancer each year in Australia. Read on to find out more about workplace cancer risks and your entitlements if diagnosed with a work-related cancer.
Zaparas Lawyers recently assisted one of their silicosis clients with a preserved lung function to secure over $350,000 in pain and suffering damages following one of the Victoria’s first serious injury originating motion hearings for a stonemason with silicosis.
Despite a 20-year ban on the importation and use of asbestos, it’s still slipping past our borders in products. We remind you of your rights around product liability and Australian Consumer Law.
Did you know the majority of compensated mesothelioma claims and asbestosis claims are made by tradespeople and labourers?
When you die, your superannuation account balance – together with any death insurance benefit that is part of your super – will be paid to your dependents. However, as a recent case in the media has demonstrated, this does not always occur.
If a worker contracts a disease as a result of exposure to risk factors arising from the nature of employment, that disease may be classified as an occupational disease. Are there any entitlements?
The construction industry is an essential and productive component of Australia’s workforce; but sadly, it can also be dangerous if all correct safety precautions and procedures are not adhered to.
