GRAIN GROWERS URGED TO PREPARE FOR NEW DUST LIMITS

By Jessica Dempster

Grain Producers Australia is seeking grower feedback ahead of new workplace exposure limits for grain dust, which will come into effect during this year's harvest.

From December 1, the eight-hour time weighted average exposure limit will fall from 4.0 milligrams per cubic metre to 1.5 milligrams.

GPA says the reduction could make it difficult for growers to reasonably measure, monitor and manage exposure levels on farm, while some may not be aware of the change.

GPA Chair Matthew Madden says growers are committed to safe work practices, but need clear communication about the significant change.

“Grain growers want to have effective communication from regulators about such changes, and we also want reasonable standards that we can actually comply with,” Mr Madden said.

Growers are being asked to complete GPA's online survey to help identify the practical impacts of the new limit, with responses closing at midnight AEDT on October 11.