THE solicitors of a Wodonga man with terminal, work-related illness fear his colleagues at a steel foundry could also develop the disease.
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Haydn Dexter, 44, has been receiving benefits since February when a WorkCover claim was lodged on his behalf.
Meghan Hoare, from the legal firm of Slater and Gordon, yesterday called on authorities to perform a full safety audit at Wodonga’s Bradken Foundry as a matter of urgency.
She said Mr Dexter had been diagnosed with silicosis in February.
Silicosis is a terminal illness affecting the respiratory system.
It is caused by inhaling fine silica sand particles used in the steel moulding process.
“We are aware of other cases of silicosis involving former employees at the same foundry,” Ms Hoare said.
“We know there is a more recent case in which one of Haydn’s colleagues has developed respiratory problems.
“Since his workmates became aware of his condition, Haydn has been contacted by others who have worked at the foundry and who have been diagnosed with silicosis.”
Silicosis is on a list of proclaimed diseases under the Accident Compensation Act, meaning that workers exposed to silica dust and who later develop silicosis do not need to provide any further evidence to prove their employment was the cause of their illness.
“Sadly for Haydn, he ended up in an occupation that regularly put him in contact with this substance,” Ms Hoare said.
“He is one of the unfortunate ones who has contracted this terminal disease.
“It’s gravely concerning to think work practices that have contributed to Haydn’s illness could also lead to others being diagnosed.”
Mr Dexter worked for Bradken Foundry for 24 years, including 19 at the Wodonga foundry.
He made sand moulds on a production line for 12 years and spent seven years in foundries where the steel is cast.
“Last year Haydn developed a persistent cough and thought it was some kind of less serious respiratory condition,” Ms Hoare said.
His physician had ordered tests and silicosis was diagnosed.
“The fear is that other Bradken employees will also develop the condition,” she said.
“And unless there is an immediate audit of work practices at Bradken’s six Australian foundries, workers will continue to operate in an unsafe environment.”
Ms Hoare is pursuing Mr Dexter’s a WorkCover claim, referred by the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union.
