The Stone Benchtop Ban in Australia:
What Health and Safety Professionals Need to Know
The Australian government has recently announced a significant policy shift aimed at addressing one of the most pressing occupational health issues of our time: silica dust exposure. In an unprecedented move, a ban on engineered stone benchtops is being implemented, signalling a critical step forward in protecting workers from the devastating health consequences of silicosis and other silica-related diseases.
What Prompted the Ban?
Silicosis, a debilitating and often fatal lung disease, has surged in prevalence over the past decade, particularly among workers in the engineered stone industry. Engineered stone, used extensively in kitchen and bathroom benchtops, contains up to 95% crystalline silica, far higher than natural stone alternatives like granite or marble. Cutting, grinding, and polishing these benchtops release respirable crystalline silica (RCS) into the air, posing severe health risks to workers.
A 2022 report by Safe Work Australia revealed alarming statistics: nearly one in four engineered stone workers tested showed signs of silicosis. Advocacy groups, medical professionals, and unions have been vocal in demanding urgent action, citing inadequate compliance with existing control measures as a contributing factor.
Scope of the Ban
The ban applies to the manufacture, importation, and supply of engineered stone benchtops containing high levels of crystalline silica. It is expected to come into full effect by mid-2025, with transitional arrangements to allow businesses time to adjust. Exceptions may apply for products with low silica content, provided adequate health and safety measures are implemented.
Implications for Health and Safety Professionals
The ban will have far-reaching consequences for the construction and manufacturing sectors, placing a renewed focus on workplace safety and compliance. Health and safety professionals will play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition and safeguarding workers’ health.
Key Responsibilities
- Risk Assessment and Hazard Identification: Occupational hygienists and safety professionals must assess existing workplaces for potential respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure, especially where engineered stone benchtops are still in use. Comprehensive risk assessments will be essential in identifying high-risk activities and areas.
- Control Measures: Although the ban will phase out engineered stone benchtops, silica dust will remain a concern in industries using other silica-containing materials. Health and safety professionals must implement and monitor effective controls, such as water suppression systems, local exhaust ventilation, and the use of respiratory protective equipment.
- Worker Health Surveillance: Regular health monitoring for workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica will remain a regulatory requirement. Health and safety professionals should liaise with occupational health providers to ensure timely screenings and interventions.
- Training and Education: Educating workers about the risks of silica dust exposure and the importance of control measures will be crucial. Training programs should be updated to reflect the changing regulatory landscape and the ban’s implications.
- Compliance and Transition Support: Businesses transitioning away from engineered stone benchtops will require guidance on alternative materials and safe work practices. Health and safety professionals can assist in selecting low-silica or silica-free materials and adapting processes to mitigate risks.
Challenges and Opportunities
The ban presents several challenges, including potential cost implications for businesses, worker retraining needs, and enforcement complexities. However, it also offers opportunities for innovation in material science and workplace safety practices.
Emerging Alternatives
As engineered stone benchtops are phased out, demand for safer alternatives like sintered stone, porcelain, and recycled glass surfaces is expected to rise. These materials typically have lower silica content and can be processed with less risk to workers.
Regulatory Alignment
The ban aligns with Australia’s broader commitment to improving workplace health and safety. It sets a precedent that other countries may follow, particularly those grappling with similar respirable crystalline silica-related health crises.
The Path Ahead
The engineered stone benchtop ban marks a turning point in occupational health and safety, underscoring the need for proactive measures to protect workers from preventable diseases. Health and safety professionals must remain at the forefront of this transition, providing expertise and leadership to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities it presents.