A Paint Factory in Dandenong was recently engulfed in a fire as a delivery of solvents and chemicals were being unloaded when a large explosion and subsequent fire occurred. Unfortunately, three workers were in the proximity of the blast, which lead to two of the workers being taken to hospital for injuries and one fatality. This occurrence is another reminder of the dangers of the risk workers can face when working within these factory settings, especially one containing an array of chemicals.
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Victoria Posted onPaint Factory Fire: A reminder on how to stay safe when working with Solvents, Chemicals and Fumes
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Prohibition on the use of Engineered Stone
Safe Work Australia has recently published “the Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Prohibition on the use of engineered stone”. A report in which recommends a prohibition on the use of all engineered stone to protect the health and safety of workers. This report was preceded by an announcement of the Australian Council of Trade Unions that they will ban the use of Engineered Stone on Union worksites with or without federal assistance by July 2024.
As Safe Work Australia states “Engineered Stone workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica are significantly over-represented in silicosis cases and they are being diagnosed with silicosis at a much younger age than workers from other industries”. This action toward an Engineered Stone Ban comes as many Australians are developing silicosis as a result of working with these materials, being cited by many as a health epidemic.
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Victoria Posted onNavigating the Challenges of TPD Claims: Payout denied on Centrelink carer’s allowance.
In the realm of insurance claims, the determination of Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) can be a complex and often contentious process. A recent case brought before the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) sheds light on the intricacies surrounding one complainant’s quest for a $36,000 payment based on their TPD claim.
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Victoria Posted onClient Success Story: Damages for Retail Worker Assaulted by Suspected Shoplifter
Zaparas Lawyers successfully assisted an injured retail worker to obtain damages following an assault by a suspected shoplifter.
In 2017 near the end of the workday, our client, a Retail Sales Assistant working by herself, was assisting a customer in a clothing shop when a Shopping Centre Security Guard indicated that a person who had just entered her shop was acting suspiciously and had put something in her stomach region. Our client finished serving the customer and tidied some racks when the suspicious character removed an item of clothing that she had hidden in her own clothes, threw them on the ground and as she went to leave the store she grabbed our client, forcefully pushing her to the ground.
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National Asbestos Awareness Week 2023
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.
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Victoria Posted onClient Success Story: Zaparas Lawyers achieve successful Jury Verdict for Housekeeping Attendant
Zaparas Lawyers recently achieved a successful jury verdict for a housekeeping attendant of a luxury Melbourne hotel. The matter ran for 10 days as a jury trial in the County Court between 29 August and the 11 September 2023. The jury …
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Victoria Posted onStraddle Claims: Can you claim both WorkCover and TAC benefits?
A straddle claim is when an individual’s eligibility for benefits overlaps both the WorkCover and TAC spheres.
Navigating the intricacies of both the WorkCover and TAC compensation schemes in Victoria can be daunting, especially when an accident might be seemingly covered by both legislation’s.
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Victoria Posted onDispute Resolution for TAC claims in Victoria
The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) supports Victorians who are injured on the road and assists with recovery.
Under the “No-Fault Scheme”, the TAC can provide entitlements such as medical and like expenses.
Medical and like expenses include but are not limited to:
GP consultations;
Specialist appointments;
Radiological scans (e.g. MRI, x-ray);
Physical therapies;
Psychology/Psychiatry treatment; and/or
Medication (original receipts are required).
However, there may be instances where a TAC claimant receives a denial letter or faces challenges when claiming entitlements such as medical and like expenses.
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Tradies health risks and rights to compensation
Trade occupations represent nearly 60% of serious workers’ compensation claims in Australia despite only making up about 30% of the workforce.
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Establishing Negligence: A Step-by-Step Guide for Potential Public Liability Claimants
If you suffer an unexpected accident in a public place or on a private property it is important for potential claimants to understand how to establish negligence and pursue a public liability claim. This blog will provide an easy-to-read step-by-step guide …
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Have you been exposed to pesticides and feeling unwell – you may have an occupational disease
Pesticides are used domestically as well as occupationally to control, repel and destroy pests. Pesticides are commonly dispersed as an aerosol on crops. They are also used around the home and garden to control insects.
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Occupational Exposure to Benzene can result in Adverse Health Effects
Benzene, an aromatic hydrocarbon, is mainly derived from petroleum and is used as an intermediate in the chemical industry as well as a solvent in paint, inks, dyes, thinners, adhesives, and coatings. It is also commonly used in the production of polymers, resins, synthetic fibres, and rubber products.