The link between tunnelling and silicosis

Silicosis & the risks of silica exposure

Silicosis is an incurable, often fatal, lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust – which is found in almost every type of natural rock, sand, clay and gravel in Australia.

Symptoms of advanced silicosis can include:

• chronic and severe breathlessness
• chronic immobility
• oxygen dependence
• organ failure

Silica dust can also cause lung cancer, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma and auto-immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and renal failure.

Know your rights: Contact Maurice Blackburn

If you’re diagnosed with – or are suspected of having – silicosis or any other lung disease, you should immediately limit your exposure to silica dust and speak to your GP.

You should also speak with a lawyer to understand your legal rights and to learn whether you may be eligible for compensation. Fill out the form below to request a call back from our expert team, or call us now.