Hardware chain, Bunnings, a, will stop selling engineered stone by the end of the year in response to health concerns related to silicosis.
The decision follows Safe Work Australia's report and discussions with suppliers, aiming to prepare for a transition away from the material.
The CFMEU has praised Bunnings' move and is calling for IKEA to follow suit.
Federal, state, and territory ministers plan to meet to discuss a nationwide ban on engineered stone to prevent silicosis among workers. Some support a blanket ban, while others have not yet revealed their positions.
Safe Work Australia's report highlighted there's no safe level of exposure to crystalline silica dust generated when cutting or grinding engineered stone.
The move will see Bunnings focussing on alternative products like laminate and timber for their benchtops, ensuring compliance well before any mandated changes.
Review SafetyNet's earlier coverage:
IF GOVERNMENT DON'T BAN ENGINEERED STONE, WE WILL
ENGINEERED STONE MAKERS FIGHT BAN WITH MISINFORMATION
SAFEWORK AUSTRALIA RECOMMENDS A BAN ON ENGINEERED STONE
Congratulations to every unionist who has fought so hard to bring an end to the use of deadly engineered stone in Australia. It's a huge step to see Bunnings commit to getting rid of it by the end of this year.
