Safe Work Australia has launched the Clean Air. Clear Lungs. campaign which aims to raise awareness of occupational lung diseases in workplaces across Australia.

Safe Work Australia chief executive Michelle Baxter says the campaign has already helped those in the construction industry realise that occupational lung disease is an important work health and safety concern in Australia.

“Not all hazards in the workplace are visible. It’s important to identify if your work processes are creating hazards such as dusts, gases, fumes or vapours, that if inhaled can cause lung disease,” Michelle says.

“Persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs) must ensure the health and safety of their workers – this includes protecting their lungs.”

“Safe Work Australia is providing PCBUs with information on how to eliminate or manage these work health and safety risks as part of their risk management process.”

She adds that this is not a one-off – all control measures need to be reviewed regularly to make sure they are still working and controlling the risk.

Safe Work Australia says that s review is required for the following:

• when the control measure is not effective
• before a change at the workplace that may create new hazards or risks
• if a new hazard or risk is identified
• if the results of consultation indicate that a review is necessary, or
• if a health and safety representative requests a review.

Running until December, the Clean Air. Clear Lungs. campaign targets high-risk industries of construction, agriculture, manufacturing and engineered stone.

Safe Work Australia’s Clean Air. Clear Lungs. campaign is supported by Safe Work Australia Members, including work health and safety regulators.