Australia’s Ban on Engineered Stone Came into Effect This Week July 1, 2024
In a significant move to protect workers’ health, Australia has implemented a nationwide ban on engineered stone products, a major source of dangerous silica dust this week.
Ban Implementation and Transition Period
From July 1, 2024, the use, supply, and manufacture of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs will be prohibited across Australia.
The prohibition will be implemented with a transitional period to minimize disruption to ongoing projects. Contracts for the installation of engineered stone products entered on or before December 31, 2023, will be allowed to proceed if completed by December 31, 2024. However, these activities must adhere to stricter WHS regulations for high-risk crystalline processes.
The Need for Action
The ban comes in response to increases in silicosis and silica-related diseases among Australian workers. Engineered stone dust poses a particularly high risk, and research has failed to establish a safe threshold for crystalline silica content in these products.
What is Engineered Stone?
Engineered stone is an artificial product containing crystalline silica, created by combining natural stone materials with other constituents and undergoing a hardening process. This material has been widely used in construction and home renovation, particularly for kitchen Benchtops.
Exceptions to the Ban
- Removal, repair, minor modification, and disposal of legacy products
- Engineered stone products with trace levels of crystalline silica (less than 1% by weight)
- Other silica related materials such as:
- concrete and cement products
- bricks pavers and other similar blocks
- porcelain products
- ceramic wall and floor tiles
- roof tiles
- grout, mortar and render
- plasterboard
- sintered stone.
While the ban is comprehensive, there are some exceptions;
- Removal, repair, minor modification, and disposal of legacy products
(subject to arrangements specified by your jurisdiction – see links below) - Engineered stone products with less than 1% crystalline silica content
- Other silica-related materials such as concrete, bricks, and porcelain products without resin
Existing Engineered Stone Products
It’s important to note that existing engineered stone products pose no risk if left undisturbed after installation. However, risks may arise during modification, repair, or removal work. This highlights the need for continued caution and proper safety measures when dealing with these materials.
Details of the ban may be specific to your jurisdiction.
Use the links below to find out how the ban is being implemented, including any transitional arrangements, in your state or territory.
Commonwealth
https://www.dewr.gov.au/engineeredstone
SA
https://www.safework.sa.gov.au/industry/construction/engineered-stone-prohibition
VIC
https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/frequently-asked-questions-engineered-stone-ban
