The manufacture, supply and processing of engineered stone benchtops is now banned in Tasmania, effective today.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Madeleine Ogilvie, said the prohibition will protect workers from exposure to the deadly silica dust that results from engineered stone.
"Workplace health and safety is of critical importance to all Tasmanians," said Minister Ogilvie.
"It was unacceptable that as many as one in four workers were developing silicosis from exposure to engineered stone, and we have listened to the evidence and acted.
"We have proceeded in a prudent way by engaging in consultation with key industry stakeholders, after coordinating this nationally with Work Health and Safety Ministers in other jurisdictions. We have provided for a six-month transition period away from engineered stone to ensure the best outcome for all.
"Tasmania has worked hard to ensure this ban could be implemented on July 1 and I would like to congratulate our teams who have worked so hard to achieve this date. I am also pleased to see national consistency on transitional arrangements.
"I offer my deep thanks to the building, construction and retail sectors for their input and support to this substantive change.
"Work on engineered stone can continue if a contract was entered into before 31 December 2023 and the work is finished by 31 December 2024; after that date, the full ban on the manufacture, supply, or processing of engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs will be in force."
For clarity, engineered stone that contains less than 1 per cent crystalline silica is not included in the ban, nor are:
- concrete and cement products;
- bricks, pavers and other similar blocks;
- ceramic wall and floor tiles;
- grout, mortar and render;
- plasterboard;
- porcelain products;
- sintered stone, and
- roof tiles.
"Our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future is about taking action, right now, on issues affecting Tasmanians, particularly when it comes to their health and safety," said Minister Ogilvie.
