The Tasmanian Government continues to work closely with businesses who are adapting well to the state's engineered stone ban.
During a visit to Renshaw Stone at Moonah, Minister for Small Business and Consumer Affairs, Madeleine Ogilvie, noted the critical importance of workplace safety to all Tasmanians.
"Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is all about taking action, right now, on issues affecting Tasmanians, particularly when it comes to their health and safety," said Minister Ogilvie.
"It was unacceptable that workers were developing silicosis from exposure to engineered stone, and we have acted.
"We have listened to the evidence and, after consultation with key industry stakeholders and workplace health and safety Ministers across the country, we have proceeded in a prudent way.
"We're now nearly a month into the six-month transition period allowing businesses with engineered stone contracts entered into before 31 December 2023 to finish them up by the end of the year.
"As of 2025, our full ban on the manufacture, supply or processing of engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs will be in force.
"I'm pleased that industry – including Renshaw Stone, of course - has proactively moved to offering customers alternative options that comply with the new prohibition and contain less than 1% crystalline silica, which is an accepted, low level of the substance.
"Industry is still able to undertake minor modifications to engineered stone products in homes and businesses that include 1% or more crystalline silica, ie installing a power point, stovetop adjustments or similar."
The new 'Silica has no obvious signs' campaign reminds us to work cautiously anywhere that crystalline silica may be present and to follow risk management processes to keep our workers safe and healthy.
