State and Territory workplace Ministers hold talks on engineered stone

State and Territory Workplace Ministers Hold Talks on Engineered Stone

State and territory WHS ministers met recently to discuss a potential ban on engineered stone use across Australia. Workplace safety featured heavily on the agenda, with ministers reviewing evidence on hazardous exposure risks facing tradespeople in the stone fabrication industry.

Tasmanian Minister for Workplace Safety and Consumer Affairs, Madeleine Ogilvie, said territory workplace ministers discussed the "Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Prohibition on the use of Engineered Stone."

"The Decision Regulation Impact Statement, prepared by Safe Work Australia, makes clear the risks associated with engineered stone use, and proposes a number of recommendations now for consideration of ministers," Ogilvie said in a media statement.

Why Safety Remains a Priority for Ministers

"Our government values a nationally consistent approach to ensuring Tasmanian workers aren't placed at risk, simply by going to work," Ogilvie added.

Ogilvie said her aim centres on protecting safety of everyone employed within building and construction sectors. Hazardous dust generated during cutting or grinding of engineered stone products has been linked to serious lung disease, prompting calls for stricter controls on these products.

Read more about the new model WHS regulations approved for the engineered stone ban, plus details from the report presented to WHS ministers on this issue.

Industry-Wide Implications

Several jurisdictions, including Western Australia, have signalled support for tighter restrictions. Learn more via our coverage of how WA backs a ban on engineered stone.

Businesses seeking guidance on managing workplace health risks can explore resources through our Workplace Health and Safety Show, or review broader workplace mental health and psychosocial policies supporting overall employee wellbeing.

Read the full media statement here.