New survey calls for continued awareness around silicosis despite engineered stone ban 

As Australia marks the beginning of National Safe Work Month, Lung Foundation Australia are working to break the stigma and silence on silicosis and the ongoing threat it poses to 600,000 Australian workers.  

Today, Lung Foundation Australia released results from a recent survey of over 500 participants designed to understand current awareness and attitudes towards Silicosis amongst workers in at-risk fields including Construction, Mining/Quarrying, Manufacturing, and Tunnelling.  

The results call for ongoing awareness around silicosis, highlighting the importance of education in encouraging workers to be more proactive about their lung health.  

Key findings from the survey reveal:  

• 78% are aware of silica dust and the risk of silicosis, but only 23% are worried about developing the lung condition 

• 36% are aware of the symptoms of silicosis, with awareness rising to 73% among those who know someone with the disease 

• 34% of respondents understand that silicosis is incurable, with older Australians showing a higher level of knowledge 

• 49% of respondents think about their lung health when engaging in activities that could affect it, such as working in environments with dust exposure 

• Only 23% are aware that silicosis can be asymptomatic  

• Only 8% have discussed silicosis or lung health with their GP or medical practitioner; this increases to 45% amongst those that know someone with silicosis 

• Respondents who knew someone with silicosis were more aware of which materials contain silica dust than those who were only aware of silicosis.  

Referred to as the ‘new asbestos’, workers continue to be exposed to silica dust despite the engineered stone ban in the form of sand and sandstone, granite, manufactured stone, concrete and mortar, demolition dust, limestone, and more.  

Lung Foundation Australia CEO Mark Brooke emphasises the importance of tackling the rise of silicosis while in its early stages.  

“While the recent ban on engineered stone marks a significant step forward in protecting workers from silica dust, there’s still more work to be done. There is an ongoing need for awareness, better education, and a cultural shift in how we address workplace lung health,” Mr Brooke said.  

Lung Foundation Australia encourages workers and employers alike to maintain a focus on silicosis, even as regulatory changes reduce exposure risks. Ensuring that those at risk of silicosis are well-informed and comfortable seeking medical advice will be key to managing the disease in the future. 

For media enquiries please contact: 

Deirdre McGinn on behalf of Lung Foundation Australia 

0411 208 408  

deirdre@sabio.com.au