The NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi have reiterated their
call for Government to protect workers by banning engineered
stone in a submission
on MBIE’s silica dust consultation.
“If
Brooke van Velden is genuine when she calls for an
evidence-based approach to this issue, then she must support
a full ban on engineered stone products,” said NZCTU
President Richard Wagstaff.
“Processing engineered
stone is extremely harmful to health. A ban will save
lives.
“Engineered stone is not an essential building
product and many safe alternatives exist. We should not be
putting workers’ lives at risk for a trendy
kitchen.
“The Government needs to act now. We cannot
wait for more workers to be harmed, or killed before they
realise decisive action is necessary,” said
Wagstaff.
The NZCTU is also among those calling for
stronger regulation of all work involving silica to protect
workers from the deadly lung disease
silicosis.
WorkSafe estimates that 80,000 workers are
working in conditions where the workplace exposure standard
for silica dust is regularly exceeded, showing the need for
better protections against exposure.
“Workers need
the certainty that their health is being protected at work.
Stronger regulations will provide businesses with the
clarity needed to ensure this is being provided,” said
Wagstaff.
“We also add our voice to those calling
for the establishment an occupational lung disease registry
to support exposed workers with treatment and effective
follow-up.
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