Submissions on proposed engineered stone ban published

Submissions on proposed engineered stone ban published have now been made available, giving the industry insight into stakeholder views on prohibiting this widely used building material.

Last month, Safe Work Australia invited stakeholders to have their say on a potential ban on the use of engineered stone in Australia. This move reflects mounting concern across the industry regarding silicosis and other health risks linked to cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone products.

Public Consultation Period Closes

The four-week consultation period closed on 2 April 2023. During this time, workers, employers and industry bodies were encouraged to submit feedback on how a ban might affect operations, safety practices and health outcomes across the sector.

The federal safety agency received more than 100 submissions from workers and other key stakeholders, reflecting significant public interest in the outcome of this consultation.

"We received a strong response to our consultation on a prohibition on the use of engineered stone, with over 100 submissions," Safe Work Australia CEO Michelle Baxter said.

What the Submissions Reveal

Feedback gathered through this consultation highlights how deeply the proposed ban could reshape practices within the stone fabrication industry. Many submissions raised concerns about economic impacts, while others focused squarely on health protections for workers exposed to silica dust.

Given the scale of response, Safe Work Australia's findings are likely to inform future policy direction for the industry. Businesses operating within the engineered stone industry, alongside downstream trades reliant on stone cutting industry practices, have a vested interest in how this policy develops.

For context on where this consultation fits into the broader timeline, read our earlier coverage on the deadline nears for submissions on planned engineered stone ban.

State-Level Movements Ahead of National Policy

While Safe Work Australia works through submissions at a national level, some states have already taken decisive action. Western Australia's stance is outlined in our article on how WA backs ban on engineered stone, while Tasmania has moved even further, as detailed in our report on how Tasmania officially enacts ban on engineered stone.

These state-level developments demonstrate growing momentum across the industry toward stricter controls, even as the national consultation process continues to shape overarching policy.

Implications for Industry Documentation

Businesses within the stone fabrication industry should review their existing safety documentation while this policy debate unfolds. Comprehensive Stone Fabricating SWMS remain essential for managing risks associated with cutting and shaping engineered stone products.

Similarly, operators working across related trades should consult resources such as Stone Cladding SWMS and Stone Cutting - Rock Saw - Quarry documentation to ensure compliance obligations across the wider stone industry remain met, regardless of how the ban ultimately unfolds.

Where to Read the Submissions

To read the published submissions, visit the Safe Work Australia website.

As this process moves forward, staying informed remains critical for anyone connected to the engineered stone industry, construction industry, or broader manufacturing industry sectors affected by potential regulatory change. Health and safety professionals within the healthcare industry, alongside those in the mining industry and quarrying industry, should also monitor developments closely given crossover risks tied to silica exposure.