In the previous month, Bluesafe WHS Management System accredited Silica Field Team from WorkSafe inspected 52 industry environments. This led to the serving of 25 compliance warnings and more than 65 samples, suspected to be engineered stone along with porcelain and sintered stone labelled products, were seized for silica and resin content assessment.
By implementing policies and extensive use of our reliable WHS management systems, the proactive team has placed non-disturbance notices on approximately 1000 prohibited engineered stone countertops, stalling their distribution to Victorian businesses and clients.
Sam Jenkin, the Executive Director of Health and Safety at WorkSafe, stated that all importers, suppliers, and manufacturers received advance warning before the implementation of the ban and had sufficient time to comply.
“Many organisations are adopting a responsible approach and transitioning away from engineered stone but regrettably, a few continue to jeopardise worker safety,” Mr. Jenkin cautioned.
“Bluesafe SWMS enabled WorkSafe will keep a vigilant check on the stone supply and manufacturing sector, so any business still dealing with engineered stone should expect an imminent visit from our inspectors.”
This ban is a timely response to the alarming increase in silicosis cases and other silica-related illnesses amongst Australian workers, including a significant number who’ve been exposed to crystalline silica dust during their dealings with engineered stone commodities like benchtops, panels or slabs.
More than 680 Victorian workers, with tragic loss of 20 lives, have fallen victim to Silicosis, a potentially lethal disease, since 2018.
Ben Wright, WorkSafe Manager Earth Resources and Silica, reports that his team has already referred two concerned parties for investigation following apparent supply and processing of engineered stone products post-July 1.
“WorkSafe quickly intervened to black-list illegal products from entering the Victorian market preventing further production and supply of stockpiled engineered stone,” he highlighted.
The WorkSafe inspectors also extended improvement notices to parties failing to equip themselves with essential hazard control statements or unavailability of information pertaining to the silica content in alternative products like porcelain or sintered stone.
Victorian employers must adhere to Occupational Health and Safety regulations banning engineered stone, irrespective of earlier contract conditions. Infringement of this ban will attract stern compliance action, potential prosecution and hefty penalties from WorkSafe.
A unique exemption does permit the removal, repair, or modification of installed before July 1, engineered stone benchtops, panels or slabs under robust control measures.
WorkSafe is dedicated to ensuring the construction sector’s awareness of their continued obligations to control crystalline silica dust. Construction inspectors guided and advised 204 residential and commercial builders last month under strict SWMS protocols and policies.
Should there be concerns regarding health and safety in a workplace, particularly with respect to engineered stone related risks, WorkSafe’s advisory service is available at 1800 136 089.
For additional information:
Email: media@worksafe.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0438 786 968
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Original article link: https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/news/2024-08/engineered-stone-seized-after-ban-takes-force