(1)   In relation to beryllium exposure by Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and veterans, is testing for exposure conducted by urine test or blood test.

(2)   Does the department believe that a urine test is sufficient to determine exposure to beryllium, particularly in people who have had chronic low dose exposures some years ago, and whether any potential risk is posed.

(3)   Will the department insist on blood tests to determine whether, with past exposure to beryllium-containing dusts, these people have become ‘sensitised’ to beryllium.

(4)   Does the department intend to conduct any medical research into beryllium and the effects on exposure by veterans.

(5)   Which veterans, or serving personnel, is the department contacting in relation to their possible exposure to beryllium, and how is this contact being made.

(1)   All claims by former or serving Defence personnel are being appropriately dealt with by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. (2)   (3) and (4) Refer to answer (1).

(2) (3)   and (4) Refer to answer (1).

(5)   The action taken so far to contact those who may have been exposed has included:

(a)  

   three media releases on the issue of possible beryllium-related exposure;

(b)  

   the establishment of the Beryllium Information Service, telephone number 1800 000 644;

(c)  

   posting comprehensive information about beryllium-related exposure on Defence and Department of Veterans’ Affairs websites; and

(d)  

   articles in the single service newspapers.