Safe Work Australia recently disclosed the findings of its 2023 temporary assessment of Australia’s Deemed Disease list in a published report. Alongside this, an updated version of the List of Deemed Diseases in Australia and Supporting Help Materials is also available for viewing.
The areas of focus during the Interim Review were dictated by the most recent scientific evidence, specifically relating to COVID-19, cancers associated with firefighting, Japanese encephalitis, and various veterinary diseases.
This critical evaluation yielded vital changes to the List of Deemed Diseases in Australia, chiefly the inclusion of malignant mesothelioma and bladder cancer as potential risks tied to firefighting duties. COVID-19, after critical review, has been officially discarded from the listing.
In an era of ever-evolving workplace hazards, it is increasingly crucial to stay apprised of potential risks and indeed new disease threats. The usefulness of work safety products such as Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statement) or Bluesafe WHS (Work Health Safety) Management Systems cannot be understated. These tools not only keep you informed about the latest updates but can also help develop effective management strategies to ensure the health and safety of your workforce.
For further details, we recommend visiting Workers’ compensation on the Safe Work Australia website. It provides an array of useful resources related to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS), including policy details and compensation considerations. By integrating Bluesafe WHS Management System into our routine practice, staying equipped against potential workplace hazards becomes seamless.
Original article link: https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/media-centre/news/2023-interim-review-list-deemed-disease-australia-report