In a shocking development, 13 workers assigned to the M6 tunnel construction project in Sydney have been diagnosed with silicosis — a deadly and incurable lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust.
This revelation has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action from workplace safety authorities.
The affected workers were involved in building the four-kilometre twin tunnels connecting the M8 at Arncliffe to President Avenue in Rockdale, which form part of the M6 Stage 1 motorway project.
This outbreak represents one of the largest single-project silicosis incidents in recent Australian history.
Chris Donovan, Assistant National Secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU), described the situation as a “complete betrayal of workers” and a “staggering health disaster”.
He emphasised that silicosis is entirely preventable, making this outbreak particularly alarming.
The union has called for immediate prosecutions by SafeWork NSW to hold those responsible accountable.
Concerns have also been raised about potential silica dust exposure on other major infrastructure projects, including the WestConnex M4 East, new M5, and Rozelle Interchange.
Critics argue that both tunnelling companies and SafeWork NSW have been aware of dangerous silica dust levels since 2017 but failed to take adequate action.
This lack of response has been labelled a “damning indictment” of the regulatory system.
The human cost of this crisis is severe.
Affected workers face a lifetime of health complications, including chronic coughing, breathing difficulties, and potential lung transplants.
There is currently no cure for silicosis.
CPB, the contractor employing the tunnel workers, stated that while these employees received confirmed diagnoses, it doesn’t necessarily mean they contracted the disease while working for CPB Contractors.
They noted that throughout a tunneller’s career, workers are often employed across multiple projects and companies.
SafeWork NSW has confirmed that the silicosis cases involving CPB workers are under investigation.
The regulator emphasised that any contractors exposing employees to unsafe levels of silica are breaking the law.
NSW Minister for Work Health and Safety Sophie Cotsis expressed deep concern for the affected workers and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting workers from this deadly disease.
She stated that the government encourages SafeWork NSW to “strongly enforce” the law, with “zero tolerance” for employers exposing workers to unsafe silica levels.
This crisis underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of workplace safety regulations, regular air quality monitoring, and comprehensive health screenings for at-risk workers in the construction industry.
As investigations continue, this scandal serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of prioritising worker safety in Australia’s construction sector, particularly in high-risk areas like tunnelling projects.
