The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) has reported that rolls of lead sheeting were found on display without proper safety measures. John Adley, Secretary of the Communications, Electrical, and Plumbing Union (CEPU) of South Australia, disclosed that tests conducted in June detected alarming lead levels: 59,000 micrograms per 100cm2 on shelves and 3,300 micrograms per 100cm2 on the floor. For the entire store, the average lead level was found to be 6.8 micrograms per 100cm2. "Bunnings must prioritize public safety and take immediate steps to ensure the community is not at risk from lead exposure," Adley emphasized.
Contrasting the union’s claims, a Bunnings spokesperson reassured that all necessary precautions have been taken to ensure product safety. Referencing expert advice, the spokesperson stated that the risk of lead happens primarily during activities such as heating, grinding, or welding - tasks generally performed at job sites rather than in stores.
Michael Wright, ETU National Secretary, expressed strong concerns: "Lead poisoning has no cure. We need stringent protections to defend against lead’s deadly effects in all workplaces." He maintained that the current situation is a significant oversight and called for immediate removal of lead exposure risks from all work environments.
A source from the original NewsWire article reiterated Bunnings' rejection of the claims, noting the company had collaborated with a supplier to enhance the packaging and labeling of all lead products. The improved system is expected to roll out nationally in the coming weeks. In the interim, existing stock will be stored securely in containers and made available upon request.
Meanwhile, SafeWork SA confirmed it was alerted to the issue in June and found that the store had adhered to health and safety regulations upon further inspection. "The hardware store has taken appropriate control measures to align with work health and safety laws, substantially reducing any potential hazards," a SafeWork SA representative noted.
This Bunnings incident brings to mind a recent lead health scare involving union members at AGL's Torrens Island plant between late 2022 and early 2023. Workers there reported symptoms such as insomnia, abdominal pain, cognitive issues, and chronic fatigue due to lead toxicity. Following the identification of the lead hazard, AGL halted work, conducted area monitoring, and supported affected workers. The company has since introduced new safety guidelines for handling lead-containing materials.
As the debate continues on the responsibilities of large retailers in ensuring public safety, this incident underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and strict adherence to safety standards. The relative risks associated with lead products are complex and require robust measures from both businesses and regulatory bodies to maintain safe environments for all.
