Western Australia has added its support to the banning of silica-based engineered stone.
The state joins NSW, South Australia and the ACT in supporting the ban. This comes after Safe Work Australia recommended a nationwide ban on the use of high-silica based manufactured stone, which is known to cause silicosis.
Silicosis is a deadly lung disease which is common among those working in the building/construction industry.
“There is currently no information on what a safe level of silica in engineered stone is,” WA Industrial Relations Minister Bill Johnston said.
“The rate of silicosis, which is a serious and potentially fatal disease, in WA is unacceptable.
“The Cook Government takes the issue of worker health and safety very seriously and recognises the need for urgent action.”
The Commonwealth will convene before the end of the year to discuss a nationwide ban. NSW and the ACT have already indicated they will ‘go it alone’ if a ban isn’t agreed upon.
The CFMEU also resolved to enact a ban on high-silica manufactured stone across its members by mid-2024.
Major retailers Bunnings and IKEA have also pulled high silica stone products from their shelves.