Major update in killer stone ban

Engineered stone used widely in kitchen and bathroom benchtops will no longer be allowed to be imported into Australia from January 1 next year after the material was linked to deadly silicosis disease in workers.

When cut, the material releases crystalline silica dust THAT in large amounts can lead to the incurable and fatal lung disease silicosis.

Since July 1 this year, the manufacturing, supply, processing and installation of benchtops, panels and slabs made from engineered stone has been banned across Australia, with rules extended to products made from materials containing at least 1 per cent crystalline silica as of September 1.

However, the rules do not extend to the removal, repair or minor modifications of previously installed work.

Workplace Relations Minister Murray Watt said the importation ban provided an “extra layer” of protection to workers given most engineered stone products were imported into Australia.

“In the past decade, we’ve seen a new version of the scourge of asbestosis emerge with silicosis rising among those who work with engineered stone, especially in construction,” he said, making an announcement during a speech on Wednesday.

“Men and women as young as 30 years of age are tragically dying from cancers caused by the cutting of stone that contain silica.”

During his address to the National Press Club, Senator Watt also announced that the National Construction Industry Forum would meet in October, bringing together unions, businesses and the government following the fallout over the administration of the CFMEU.

Industry association groups, including the Australian Constructors Association, Master Builders Australia and the Civil Contractors Federation, will also be in attendance.

“We’ll discuss a range of difficult issues and it will require each side to give and take, including by addressing misconduct and lawlessness on both the worker and employer sides,” he said.

The move was immediately welcomed by NSW Work Health and Safety Minister Sophie Cotsis, who called it “the next logical step to further reducing silicosis and creating safer workplaces”.

“Silicosis is preventable, and this step reinforces our commitment to removing dangerous exposure to silica dust from engineered stone, saving lives in the process,” she said.

“No one deserves to have their health compromised due to their working environment. Every worker deserves to come home safely at the end of their day.”