There are concerns that the health of more Victorians has suffered following further contamination revelations at the fire-fighter training centre in Fiskville.
It was recently revealed that dangerous chemicals found in fire-fighting foams had leaked into the main water tanks at the facility, potentially exposing workers to an array of health problems. After the revelations, the Victorian government sought resignations from Worksafe chief executive Denise Cosgrove and chairman David Karsnostein.
The discovery is the latest in a long line of potentially hazardous circumstances at the facility that have put Victorian workers at risk. A parliamentary inquiry has already been held regarding potential exposure of fire-fighters in training to carcinogenic substances whilst at the Fiskville facility.
In late 2014, a parliamentary process was commenced to conduct an inquiry into the establishment of a board in Victoria to award compensation for fire-fighters who have developed certain types of cancer. The process, which already exists in a number of other Australian jurisdictions, automatically deems particular cancers to be connected to their work as a fire-fighter, removing the requirement to establish a connection between their work and the illness.
Recent court decisions have also found a connection between particular occupations and the development of cancer, such as welders and outdoor workers. If you or someone you know has suffered an injury or illness which you think is connected to their employment, we invite you to speak to one of our expert injury lawyers on (03) 9321 9988.