PROTECTING PRODUCTION

By MARTIN WANLESS

Engineered stone benchtops have been making news headlines recently, with research from Curtin University forecasting up to 10,000 Australians will develop lung cancer in their lifetime due to exposure to silica dust.

The risks that emerge from working with engineered stone often come to the fore years after exposure, and James Tuitavuki, Head of Liability at Ocean Underwriting, says, “It can be problematic because these injuries may not manifest immediately, potentially creating long-term health risks for people working in occupations like stone cutting and shop fitting.

“Workers may unknowingly be exposed to hazardous materials during the installation process. This could potentially lead to health problems that emerge years later, making it challenging to identify the source and seek appropriate compensation or treatment. It highlights the importance of stringent work safety measures and awareness in these industries to prevent such latent injuries from occurring.”

The long-term repercussions of working with engineered stone are drawing comparisons with the consequences of working with asbestos – and it’s not just silica that’s causing the industry concern. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of more than 4000 chemicals used in a range of applications – including stain and water protection, paper coating, cosmetics, sunscreen, and medical devices – are also under the spotlight.

“Anything containing perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl or polymers are emerging as potential problems,” says Matthew

McPhee,

National Underwriting Manager, Berkley Insurance Australia.

Other Risks To Watch

Morgan Long, CEO of Epsilon Underwriting, says toys and technology are also causing concern.

“Product liability in respect to toys and products designed for minors is problematic in that the tail from an insurance perspective is extended with the minor able to make a claim up to three years after their 18th birthday.

“Other product issues sit with new technology, where underwriters struggle with the risk simply because the product is not tried and tested.”

Stephen Alexander of Cornerstone Risk Group adds, “There has been a significant rise in fires related to lithium-ion batteries. When lithium batteries fail to operate safely or are damaged, they present a fire and/or explosion hazard. Damage from improper use, storage, or charging may also cause lithium batteries to fail. Manufacturers are increasingly turning to battery storage of solar power and battery-powered equipment, so it’s important they are aware of the risks associated with such devices.”