Calls for comment on lead in the workplace

Safe Work Australia has invited businesses and workers who deal with lead and lead products in their workplaces to comment on proposed changes to work health and safety requirements for inorganic lead.

New scientific evidence suggests current legislated blood lead levels, and workplace exposure standards for lead, may not adequately protect all workers.

“We are seeking feedback on proposed amendments to laws to improve workplace safety, including on the permitted levels of lead in workers’ blood and lead concentrations in the air; and the likely cost and impact to businesses any changes might have,” said Safe Work Australia CEO Michelle Baxter.

“We want work health and safety legislation to be evidence based and to work to reduce adverse health outcomes while remaining practical for businesses to implement.”

Current lead exposure standards are specified in the Model Work Health and Safety Regulations. These apply in nearly all states and territories across Australia.

Based on emerging evidence, options have been put forward for regulatory change in a Consultation Regulation Impact Statement.

“We’re particularly interested in hearing from workers and businesses that deal with lead in the course of their work, as well as regulators, occupational hygienists and work health and safety professionals,” said Baxter.

The public consultation period is open until 26 February 2016. Submissions can be made via the Safe Work Australia public submissions website.