In the context of workers dealing with the risks of melioidosis, it's crucial to understand this tropical disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei bacteria, naturally present in soil. In Queensland, particularly in the north, melioidosis is prevalent, especially during the wet season when high rainfall exposes the bacteria in mud and surface water.

Workers face the risk of melioidosis if the bacteria enter through a break in the skin, through inhalation during wet and windy weather, or by ingesting contaminated water. The disease can lead to respiratory illness, septicaemia, skin and soft tissue infections, as well as infections of bones, joints, internal organs, and the brain.

Those at risk include manual laborers, construction workers, gardeners, agricultural workers, and emergency services workers involved in flood recovery. While most healthy adults may not fall ill after exposure, individuals with risk factors like diabetes, chronic diseases, heavy alcohol use, advanced age, cancer, or compromised immunity are more susceptible.

To manage the risk, eliminating exposure is the most effective method, although not always feasible. Personal hygiene practices play a crucial role, including thorough handwashing with soap and water, using waterless hand sanitizers with sufficient alcohol content, checking and covering any cuts, refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking while working with wet soil, promptly washing if exposed, and taking a shower after work. Adequate washing facilities, first aid provisions, and clean eating and drinking facilities must be provided to workers to ensure their safety.