​SafeWork SA blitz aims to confirm adherence to the prohibition on engineered stone

SafeWork SA Blitz Aims to Confirm Adherence to the Prohibition on Engineered Stone

SafeWork SA has planned unannounced inspections of stone businesses to guarantee adherence to the recent ban on engineered stone, as substantial new fines are now applicable. These inspections form part of a broader safety push across South Australia's construction and manufacturing sectors.

The prohibition on engineered stone, effective from 1 July 2024, forbids the production, distribution, processing, and fitting of engineered stone benchtops, boards, and blocks. This ban reflects growing national concern about health risks linked to certain construction products.

What Penalties Apply for Non-Compliance?

Failure to adhere to the new work health and safety legislation could result in fines of up to $42,000 for businesses, according to SafeWork SA. Individual employees or managers who fail to comply with the laws face fines of up to $8,400.

• Businesses: fines up to $42,000 for breaches of the ban
• Individuals and managers: fines up to $8,400 for non-compliance
• Ongoing plant and worksite inspections to verify safety standards

SafeWork SA's Compliance Strategy

SafeWork SA Executive Director Glenn Farrell said the workplace safety regulator is implementing a proactive and thorough strategy to educate, ensure compliance, and enforce the new regulations. Farrell noted that plant operators across South Australia must understand their obligations under current health and safety requirements.

Snap inspections target plant sites, fabrication yards, and premises where engineered stone products were historically processed. Regulators will assess whether plant machinery, storage areas, and worksite practices align with the ban's requirements, reducing risk exposure for those working nearby.

Why This Matters for Safety Professionals

Engineered stone processing has long been associated with serious health risks for tradespeople handling these products. The ban represents a significant shift in workplace safety policy, and businesses still holding legacy plant or materials should review their compliance position immediately.

Construction, manufacturing, and trade businesses across Australia should take note of this enforcement approach, as similar safety measures may extend to other jurisdictions. Reviewing risk management practices now can help avoid costly penalties later.

For further guidance on managing risk within your organisation, see our resources on managing risks of plant in the workplace, and review related coverage including the government's support for the prohibition on engineered stone imports and WorkSafe's reminder about the engineered stone prohibition.

Businesses seeking practical compliance resources may also benefit from reviewing archived guidance such as the Stone Fabricating SWMS, Stone Cladding SWMS, and Stone Cutting – Rock Saw – Quarry documents, which outline former safe work practices relevant to affected trades.

For more on this story, go to the SafeWork SA website.