The Workplace Safety Legislation and Other Matters Act 2022 became law on 16 March 2022. It provides more support to workers and families affected by the debilitating effect of silicosis and similar occupational diseases.

To provide members with an update - as of Friday, 1 July 2022, workers with eligible diseases will not need to prove that their injury has stabilised to receive lump sum payments. They will also be able to make subsequent applications if their impairments progress.

Other amendments include increased support for the families of workers with silicosis and similar diseases, such as counselling and improved compensation and assistance entitlements.

Click here to read more.

MBV would also like to advise members that if you or your workers are carrying out a crystalline silica process or processes, you must identify whether those processes meet the definition of 'high risk crystalline silica work'.

WorkSafe has created a new High Risk Crystalline Silica Work - Identification and Management - WorkSafe flowchart which has been designed to help provide simple guidance to industry relevant to the new Silica Regulations.

Click here to view the Flowchart.

Members requiring assistance in this area are encouraged to call the MBV Assist Team on (03) 9411 4555.