WorkSafe Update: Ban on Engineered Stone Effective 1 July 2024

Effective from 1 July 2024, the ban on engineered stone comes into force in the ACT. Businesses are prohibited from manufacturing, supplying, processing, or installing engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs. This prohibition aims to better protect workers from the risk of serious respiratory diseases such as silicosis, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer.

The ban does not apply to the removal, repairs, minor modifications, and disposal of existing engineered stone benchtops, panels, and slabs. However, starting 1 November 2024, PCBUs must notify WorkSafe ACT in writing if they intend to perform permitted work with legacy engineered stone.

The ACT is not accepting applications for exemptions at this time but will recognise exemptions granted by other WHS regulators.

Need More?

For more information about the ban or your obligations, reach out to the Workplace Relations and Legal team on 02 6175 5900.

Alternatively, more information relating engineered stone prohibition, exemptions and notification requirements can be found here –

• Work Safety Group – Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate (act.gov.au) – The ACT Implementation Factsheet
• Engineered stone prohibition – Guidance for PCBUs.