Ban on Engineered Stone: Protecting Workers’ Health
New crystalline silica substances regulations – visit the Safe Work Australia website for information.
The ban on engineered stone is effective 1 July, 2024
Work Health and Safety Ministers have unanimously agreed to amend the model work health and safety (WHS) laws, implementing a ban on engineered stone, effective 1 July, 2024.
Deeming the risks associated with engineered stone unacceptable, Queensland will not adopt a transitional period for the ban. The ban means that from 1 July, work with engineered stone in the manufacturing, supply, processing, and installation of benchtops, panels and slabs must cease even if contracts were entered into prior to the ban date.
The ban extends to the manufacturing, supply, processing, and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs.
What engineered stone products will be banned?
The ban will cover the use of all engineered stone products that:
- contain 1 per cent or more crystalline silica;
- are created by combining natural stone materials with other chemical constituents (such as water, resins, or pigments);
- and undergo a process to become hardened.
Engineered stone products installed prior to the prohibition
From 1 July 2024, it is illegal for businesses to install, produce or manufacture engineered stone slabs, benchtops, and panels across Queensland workplaces.
Exemptions can be sought for repairs, removal and minor modifications to existing installed products. Exemptions can be permitted under a national framework and subject to notification to workplace health and safety regulators.
Pre-ban recommendations
Prior to 1 July, 2024, workers and businesses are encouraged to continue working with engineered stone in controlled environments, adhering to Queensland's approved code of practice for stone benchtops containing respirable crystalline silica.
Support and guidance
Businesses are urged to explore alternative products and consult Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) advice pages, featuring FAQs on respirable crystalline silica and workplace management.
Exemptions
Exemptions from the ban include porcelain and sintered stone products without resin. Additionally, finished engineered stone products such as jewellery, garden ornaments, sculptures, and kitchen sinks are exempt due to minimal processing.
Resources
- Notification of permitted work with pre-existing engineered stone
- Frequently asked questions
- New regulations for respirable crystalline silica
- Respirable crystalline silica - code of practice
- Safe Work Australia guidance
- Department of Employment and Workplace Relations information
- Information for consumers
- Queensland Government information
- Waste levy exemption information
Need more help?
You can access additional resources and support by contacting us via safetyinfo@oir.qld.gov.au.