Sibelco Fined $400K After Workers Exposed to Silica Dust at Victorian Quarry

Introduction
Global mining company Sibelco has been fined $400,000 for exposing four workers to harmful silica dust at its Lang Lang quarry in eastern Victoria. Three of the workers have since been diagnosed with silicosis, an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust.

Key Points

• Four workers exposed to “plumes” of silica dust while loading pallets.
• Three workers diagnosed with silicosis, a debilitating lung disease.
• Sibelco charged with failing to provide a safe workplace.
• Court criticizes delayed implementation of safety measures.
• Victim expresses dissatisfaction with the company’s response and the fine amount.

Details of the Silica Dust Exposure
The four workers were regularly exposed to “plumes” of silica dust while loading pallets at the quarry, despite the known dangers of silica exposure since 2012. One of the workers, Kevin Weekes, received his devastating silicosis diagnosis in 2019, with his doctor urging him to “get his affairs in order.” Mr. Weekes described the diagnosis as shattering his world and leaving him with a life filled with pain, difficulty breathing, and financial hardship.

Legal Consequences and Response
Sibelco was charged with two counts of failing to provide a safe workplace. The Wonthaggi Magistrates Court heard that the company could have implemented automated bagging and robotic loading equipment sooner to mitigate the silica dust exposure. The court imposed a $400,000 fine, the maximum allowed under jurisdictional limits.

While Sibelco’s general manager in Australia offered a written apology, Mr. Weekes expressed disappointment that the apology wasn’t delivered personally and felt the fine was insufficient given the company’s resources.