Engineered stone ban

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On 13 December 2023, the National Work Health and Safety ministers unanimously agreed to ban the use, supply and manufacture of all engineered stone which is mainly used to make benchtops. 

Following this decision:

  • From 1 July 2024 the use, supply and manufacture of engineered stone slabs, panels and benchtops of engineered stone will be banned in Western Australia, but a transition period will last until 31 December 2024.
  • The pre-existing contracts entered into before 1 January 2024 for engineered stone maybe honoured during the transition period.
  • Engineered stone benchtops and other products already installed in homes do not pose a health hazard, as the finished product does not release dust. However, those working with already installed engineered stone, for example, to remove it, will need to notify WorkSafe.

Dry cutting, trimming, drilling, sanding, grinding or polishing engineered stone without effective controls generates very high levels of silica dust. This respirable crystalline silica produced when inhaled will expose workers and others to levels of silica dust that would be expected to exceed the workplace exposure standard and is a serious health risk.

A person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) must not direct or allow workers to undertake uncontrolled dry cutting or processing of engineered stone. The following methods can be used to reduce the risks of silica dust: 

  • a water suppression (wet cutting) system
  • an on-tool dust extraction system, or 
  • local exhaust ventilation system.

All workers who process engineered stone must also be provided with and wear respiratory protective equipment.

Further guidance on how to effectively manage risks associated with working with engineered stone and, subsequently, minimise the incidence of respirable crystalline silica-related diseases, such as silicosis is available in the Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace: Code of practice.

What is an engineered stone? 

Engineered stone is defined as an artificial product that:

  • contains crystalline silica
  • is created by combining natural stone materials with other chemical constituents such as water, resins, or pigments
  • undergoes a process to become hardened.

Disposal of engineered stone

The prohibition will allow for the disposal of installed and uninstalled engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs. Disposal of engineered stone must be in line with the existing jurisdictional waste management requirements. Any processing required will be controlled. 

Products excluded

The following products are currently excluded from the ban:

  • porcelain products
  • sintered stone
  • concrete and cement products
  • bricks, pavers and other similar blocks
  • ceramic wall and floor tiles
  • roof tiles
  • grout, mortar and render
  • plasterboard
  • finished engineered stone products that don't require processing/modifications. 

Information session

This free online information session is open to anyone who may be affected by the upcoming prohibition of engineered stone products. The session will discuss the implications for PCBUs and workers in industries such as construction, demolition, disposal and waste management of engineered stone. 

Find out more about the Prohibition on the use of engineered stone – online information session.

Next steps

  • Model laws will be implemented in each jurisdictions. The national model laws will be finalised and adopted in WA. 
  • Safe Work Australia will provide any further guidance and communication following the meeting in May 2024. 
  • By 31 July 2025, Safe Work Australia will conduct a review of the operations of the engineered stone prohibition.
  • Safe Work Australia will also conduct health research on alternative materials. 

Further information

Media statements

Safe Work Australia

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