Why engineered stone has been banned

Silica dust is a health hazard. It is produced when materials or products containing silica, such as engineered stone benchtops and slabs, stone, bricks, concrete or tiles, are cut, drilled, polished or ground. Particles of silica dust are so small you may not know you are breathing them in, but they can lodge deep into your lungs and cause permanent damage, including fatal diseases such as silicosis and lung cancer.

Why is engineered stone banned?

Engineered stone can contain up to 97 per cent crystalline silica. Processing this material by cutting, grinding, trimming, drilling, sanding or abrasive polishing with a power tool creates a lot of fine dust. On July 1, 2024, the manufacture, supply, processing and installation of engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs was banned to protect workers from the risks of exposure to silica dust.

Are existing engineered stone benchtops hazardous?

No, these materials only become hazardous when they are processed by cutting, grinding or polishing with power tools. Previously installed engineered stone benchtops do not need to be removed. See more health and safety information from Bunnings, relating to other hazardous materials.

Can I renovate my kitchen that has engineered stone benchtops?

It is recommended that you contact a qualified tradesperson if you require removal, repairs, minor modification or disposal of engineered stone already in place in your house or workplace, such as benchtops or splashbacks. Tradespeople must comply with work, health and safety (WHS) regulations for processing crystalline silica substances and must notify the WHS regulator of any work with engineered stone before they start the job.

Does the prohibition apply to all engineered stone products?

The prohibition only applies to panels and slabs that require further processing. It does not apply to the following.

• Engineered stone products that are not panels or slabs and which do not require further processing, such as jewellery, garden ornaments, sculptures and kitchen sinks.
• Natural stone such as granite.
• Porcelain and sintered stone, provided they do not contain resin.
• Concrete and cement products.

What do workers need to be aware of?

Workers in construction, manufacturing, tunnelling, demolition, mining, quarrying and stone masonry are at risk of being exposed to silica dust. Refer to the relevant WHS laws to ensure you follow new rules associated with working with crystalline silica substances.

How can I protect myself from silica and other fine dust?

If you are at risk of being exposed to silica or other fine dust, use at least one of the following protective measures.

• Physically separate yourself from the source of the dust, for example by using solid barriers or erecting an exclusion zone.
• Use an effective wet dust-suppression method.
• Use an on-tool extraction system or local exhaust ventilation system.

An additional level of protection can be provided by wearing correctly rated and fitted respiratory protective equipment.

For more information visit silicasafety.gov.au