The NSW government will create an expert taskforce to address silica-related risks to workers on tunnelling projects.  

The team will feature government, medical, industry and union representatives providing advice on managing the dangers of dust disease.  

Areas of action will include improved monitoring of worker health and safety, and a review of the Tunnels Under Construction Code of Practice to ensure it reflects industry benchmarks.  

The taskforce will also ensure better use of and access to workplace air monitoring data by sharing information with SafeWork NSW.  

SafeWork NSW says it will establish a tunnelling project silica compliance assessment to set clear safety criteria. Its inspectors will continue to conduct regular site visits.

State Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis hopes the taskforce “will give the community confidence that we have the right experience and expertise in the same room to guide the response to this risk.

“I welcome the important work of the expert taskforce to protect the health and safety of workers. 

“We have identified areas which will be addressed in a co-ordinated, transparent process, which will help create safer workplaces.”  

Last April, the NSW government awarded a $5 million research grant to aid silicosis studies and treatment. At the start of this year, Australia introduced a world-first import ban on engineered stone products containing more than 1% silica.