Introduction

Understanding the risks associated with Lyngbya majuscule (Lyngbya) is vital for safeguarding your health and securing potential compensation payments in the event of a workplace accident or injury. This guide empowers you to manage these risks effectively, ensuring a safer work environment.

Lyngbya: An Overview

What Is Lyngbya?

Lyngbya, also known as "mermaid’s hair" or "fireweed," is a naturally occurring toxic blue-green algae. It is found in coastal waters in Queensland and is known for its toxic properties.

Conditions Favoring Lyngbya Growth:

• Lyngbya thrives when water temperatures exceed 24 degrees Celsius.
• Optimal conditions include ample light and high nutrient levels (e.g., phosphorus, nitrogen, bio-available iron, and dissolved organic matter).
  
  

Risks Associated with Lyngbya

Health Implications:

Lyngbya exposure can result in various health issues, including:

• Skin and eye irritation (itching, burning, pain, rash, blisters)
• Respiratory irritation (especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma)
• Gastrointestinal irritation (swelling, abdominal pain, inflamed mouth, esophagus, stomach, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, high heart rate, fever)
  
  

Workers at Risk

Occupations Prone to Lyngbya Exposure:

Workers at a higher risk of Lyngbya exposure include those in the following fields:

• Fishing, crabbing, and prawning industries
• Marine researchers and professional divers
• Cleaning beaches and foreshores where algal blooms may wash up
  
  

Managing Lyngbya Risks

Collaboration between workers and management is crucial for risk mitigation. A safe workplace benefits all and positions you to claim compensation should the need arise. Learn how to create a secure work environment.

Responsibilities for Workers

Worker's Duty:

As a worker, you are responsible for your health and safety, as well as the safety of others. Ensure you:

• Follow reasonable health and safety instructions from your employer.
• Use equipment correctly and adhere to safe work policies and procedures.
• Attend training sessions and seek clarification if something is unclear or uncertain.
  
  

Responsibilities for Businesses

Employer's Obligation:

For employers and persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU), managing workplace risks is a legal duty as per the Work Health and Safety Act 2011.

Adopt the four-step risk management process to fulfill these responsibilities. Refer to the "How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice 2021" for practical guidance.

The Four Steps to Manage Risk

Step 1: Identify the Risk

• Identify how workers may be exposed to Lyngbya through skin or eye contact, inhalation of dried Lyngbya, or ingestion of contaminated water.

Step 2: Assess the Risk

• Assess the risk and identify the need for control measures. Use a risk assessment template to guide and record your assessments.

Step 3: Control the Risk

Implement control measures based on the hierarchy of control:

• Level 1: Get rid of harm and prevent risk.
• Level 2: Replace the hazard or separate from it, change work processes or the physical environment.
• Level 3: Use administrative controls or personal protective equipment (PPE) to reduce exposure.

Eliminate or minimize Lyngbya exposure by:

• Scheduling work outside peak bloom periods.
• Rescheduling work around areas with established blooms.
• Changing work processes to reduce exposure.
• Restricting public access to affected areas.
• Providing suitable PPE for workers in marine industries.
• Implementing safe work methods for handling Lyngbya.
• Offering information, training, and supervision for Lyngbya risk management.

Step 4: Review Risk Controls

Regularly review control measures to ensure their effectiveness. Perform reviews when issues arise or when regulations mandate a review. Utilize the How to Manage Work Health and Safety Risks Code of Practice 2021 for guidance on issue identification.

What to Do if Exposed to Lyngbya

First Aid for Lyngbya Exposure:

If a worker is exposed to Lyngbya through inhalation, ingestion, skin or eye contact, provide first aid:

• Wash affected areas with soap and water immediately to remove any remaining material.
• Flush eyes with clean water or saline solution if they have had contact.
• Remove clothing that could trap Lyngbya and use a cool compress for skin irritation.
• Seek medical attention if the eyes are affected or if severe irritation occurs.
  
  

Incident Notification

Reporting Incidents:

In the case of a worker developing a serious illness due to Lyngbya exposure, including medical treatment within 48 hours of exposure, it is mandatory to notify Workplace Health and Safety Queensland.

Conclusion

By understanding and proactively managing Lyngbya risks, you not only protect your health but also position yourself for potential compensation claims in the face of workplace accidents or injuries. Vigilance and adherence to safety measures are the cornerstones of a safe and prosperous work life.