WorkSafe has released its updated publication Code of Compliance for Engineered Stone. This Code provides practical guidance for those who have duties or obligations under the OHS Act and the OHS Regulations in relation to exposure to crystalline silica dust, as a result of working with engineered stone.
The Code replaces the previous Managing exposure to crystalline silica: Engineered stone compliance code that was revoked on 1 July 2024.
The Code aligns with changes to the OHS Regulations on 1 July 2024 to ban the use of engineered stone in Victoria and outlines when work with engineered stone benchtops, panels and slabs is prohibited by the OHS Regulations.
The code covers the basics of what engineered stone is, what the ban means, what the health risks are, and who has duties relating to engineered stone. It also outlines when work may be carried out as an exemption or an exception to the prohibition or is not work that is prohibited. Other topics covered include –
- the risk management process – identifying, assessing and controlling the risks
- specific control measures and how to maintain them, including –
- integrated water delivery systems
- on-tool dust extraction
- design of work environment
- work practices
- PPE
- atmospheric monitoring
- health monitoring
- the compliance framework
The Code can be found on the WorkSafe website, where you can also find a range of engineered stone frequently asked questions.
Read more: Compliance code: Engineered stone | WorkSafe Victoria