Attachment 2: Summary of Consultation Processes and Research Conducted by the Taskforce The consultation process The Taskforce undertook a series of consultations from mid-2019 to mid-2021 to seek input from a wide range of stakeholders. There was a high level of similarity and agreement on the issues identified across the various consultation phases. A number of research projects were also conducted into dust diseases in general and silicosis in particular.
Phase 1 consultation The Taskforce initiated the first stage consultation process in the form of a set of eight questions to be answered by stakeholders. Stakeholders submitted responses through three potential avenues:
– An online survey – Written submissions – Feedback via email
69 responses were received, and 146 individuals attended forums in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. The findings of these consultations contributed to the Interim Advice.
Key findings of Phase 1
– Broad awareness of silicosis as a disease exists however there is a lack of awareness of risks
associated with specific tasks in the workplace, symptoms of silicosis and correct usage of PPE.
– There is no ‘silver bullet’ or single solution to address this health and workplace issue – There is no consistency of approach across jurisdictions – The speed with which silicosis has re-emerged means that there is a lack of longitudinal data and a limited evidence base to inform decisions
– The greatest challenges lie in ensuring worker safety issues and costs faced by micro businesses and small businesses
– There is a high degree of lack of compliance amongst smaller businesses A key message that emerged was that there was no time to be wasted and a strong and immediate response was required to address the re-emergence of silicosis and to achieve nationally consistent outcomes in its prevention, diagnosis and management.
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National Dust Disease Taskforce
