Australian Engineered Ban – So what is next for the industry?
The Australian Engineered Stone Ban: The impact on rules around materials and regulatory requirements resulting from an Australian Engineered Stone Ban will likely involve changes and adjustments in the construction and design industry. Some of the potential effects of new introduced rules and regulations on Engineered stone suppliers and installers are not avoidable.
Occupational Health and Safety Standards: we know the ban will come into effect on July 1st. Consequently, there could be stricter occupational health and safety standards in place for working with certain materials.
At Systec we do understand the frustration of staged regulatory changes that engineered stone suppliers and installers have undergone, as WorkSafe Victoria implemented an engineered stone licensing scheme which forced engineered stone suppliers to undergo massive compliance changes to their occupational health and safety management systems and safety measures which was a costly venture for some larger companies and completely decimated small operators. Although no cost should not be argued when you are talking about the safety of the workers that are exposed or have lost their lives at a later stage of life.
Material Specifications: New specifications for alternative materials might be introduced to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards. But we have to ask the question? will be tighter restrictions at the source, which are the producers who are importing these products.
Certification and Testing: Authorities may implement or revise certification processes for materials, especially alternatives to engineered stone.
Inspections and Compliance Checks that include building inspections and compliance checks could become more stringent, with a focus on verifying that construction projects adhere to the new material regulations.
Training and Education: Workforce training programs might be established or expanded to educate construction professionals about the risks associated with certain materials and to ensure they are familiar with the proper handling of alternatives.
Environmental Impact Assessment: Regulatory bodies may also consider the environmental impact of alternative materials.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Governments and industry associations have launched public awareness campaigns to inform builders, designers, and the general public about the reasons behind the ban.
Will the Australian Engineered Stone Ban become a catalyst for black market materials?
Liam Cooper
OHS Consultant
Systec-pl