Navigating the New Engineered Stone Ban | Safe Work Australia

In a significant move to enhance workplace safety, Safe Work Australia (SWA) has released new guidance on the engineered stone ban. Here’s a detailed look at what the new guidance entails and what it means for businesses involved with engineered stone products.

Understanding the Scope of the Ban

The new guidance delineates the precise scope of the engineered stone ban. Engineered stone, known for its versatility and durability, has been widely used in construction and interior design. However, due to health concerns, particularly regarding silicosis—a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust—stringent measures have been implemented. The ban applies to manufacturing, importing, and using engineered stone, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with silica exposure.

Duties Under the National Notification Framework

One of the pivotal aspects of the guidance is the emphasis on the national notification framework. PCBUs (Persons conducting a business or undertaking) must notify the Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulator before undertaking any work with legacy engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs. This step ensures that all activities involving engineered stone are monitored and controlled to prevent health hazards. The notification process is a crucial component in maintaining compliance with the new regulations.

Ensuring Controlled Processing

The guidance also elaborates on the duties of PCBUs to ensure the controlled processing of sintered stone, porcelain products, and, where permitted, engineered stone. Controlled processing involves implementing stringent safety measures and using appropriate equipment to minimize silica dust exposure. This includes wet-cutting techniques, local exhaust ventilation, and personal protective equipment (PPE). Adhering to these practices is vital for protecting workers’ health and ensuring a safe working environment.

The National Exemption Framework

An interesting aspect of the new guidance is the introduction of the national exemption framework. This framework outlines the process and requirements for seeking an exemption from the ban for a specific type of engineered stone. To qualify for an exemption, businesses must provide compelling evidence demonstrating that the engineered stone can be worked with safely. This includes detailed risk assessments, evidence of control measures in place, and ongoing monitoring of workplace conditions. The exemption process is rigorous, ensuring that only the safest practices are permitted.

Updates to Existing National Guides

In addition to the new guidance, SWA has updated two existing national guides to reference the engineered stone ban. These updates provide additional context and reinforce the importance of adhering to the new regulations. By aligning the existing guides with the latest safety standards, SWA aims to create a cohesive framework that supports the health and safety of workers across Australia.

Moving Forward

The publication of this new guidance marks a significant step forward in safeguarding the health and safety of workers in industries dealing with engineered stone. Businesses must familiarize themselves with the new requirements and ensure they are fully compliant to avoid penalties and, more importantly, to protect their workers. The engineered stone ban, while challenging for some, ultimately serves a greater purpose of creating safer workplaces and preventing long-term health issues.

As the landscape of workplace safety continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is key. Safe Work Australia’s new guidance on the engineered stone ban provides a clear roadmap for businesses to navigate these changes effectively. By adhering to the new regulations and implementing best practices, we can collectively work towards a safer and healthier future for all workers.

New guidance to support engineered stone ban | Safe Work Australia