Engineered Stone Ban and Crystalline Silica Regulations -…

Engineered Stone Ban and Crystalline Silica Regulations: Here is Everything You Need to Know.

Reading time: 5 mins

Engineered Stone Ban Summary

From July 1, 2024, a ban on engineered stone will take effect across all states and territories. This means you can't use, supply, manufacture, process, or install engineered stone benchtops, slabs, or panels.

More guidance on dealing with existing engineered stone and exemptions for safe use in exceptional cases is being worked through.

New Crystalline Silica Regulations

Until now, the focus has been on engineered stone, however crystalline silica can be found in many other building materials. Starting September 1, 2024, new rules for crystalline silica will be enforced to better protect workers. Key changes include:

Banning uncontrolled processing of crystalline silica.
Requirements to:

Develop a Silica Risk Control Plan for high-risk processes like cutting or grinding.
Provide additional worker training.
Conduct air and health monitoring for workers
Report to the regulator if exposure standards are exceeded.

A new Code of Practice will be introduced in all states, with guidance from Safe Work Australia to help businesses and workers comply with the new regulations.

Engineered Stone FAQ

What is engineered stone?

Engineered stone is a man-made product that:

Contains 1% or more crystalline silica determined as a weight/weight (w/w) concentration; and
Is made by combining natural stone with other materials like water, resins, or pigments.

Hardens to form a solid surface.

What's not included under "engineered stone"?

Concrete and cement products
Bricks, pavers, and similar blocks
Ceramic wall and floor tiles
Sintered stone
Porcelain products
Roof tiles
Grout, mortar, and render
Plasterboard

Is there a transitional period?

ACT, Queensland, Victoria: No transitional period.
NSW, SA, WA, Tasmania, Northern Territory: Transitional period until December 31, 2024. Contracts signed before December 31, 2023, are exempt if completed by December 31, 2024.

What about already installed engineered stone?

If you need to repair, remove, dispose of or make any minor modifications after 1st July 2024, you will need to notify your state regulator first. Notification forms will be available from your state regulator along with any other specific information such as timeframes and re-notification requirements.

VIC – A licence is no longer needed to work with engineered stone from 1st July 2024 and no notification will be required to work with already installed stone.

NSW, SA, WA, TAS, QLD – Notification forms will be available from your state regulator before 1st July 2024 and you will need to submit the form before starting any work.

NT – Written notification will be required every 12 months. The form will be ready before 1st July 2024.

ACT – Notification is required from 1st November 2024 and you will only need to notify once.

Remember, before starting any of the work you must have control measures in place to minimise the dust and you must wear respiratory protection.

What are the alternatives?

Yes, there are many silica-free options to fit any budget. Timber, stainless steel, and laminate alternatives have come a long way. For instance, Laminex offers some excellent Contact Sheet options.