How Policy Changes May Affect Club Renovations

In recent years, there has been an increased use of engineered stone for bathroom and kitchen surfaces, particularly flooring, countertops and benchtops, across a number of industries, including hospitality. This product was seen as an affordable product with a high-end finish.

Engineered stone, a potent source of respirable crystalline silica, poses significant health risks, such as silicosis and other silica-related diseases.

A recent study conducted by Curtin University found that more than half a million Australian workers are currently exposed to silica dust. As many as 10,000 Australians are predicted to develop lung cancer in their lifetime from exposure to the ‘dust’.[1]

Clubs need to exercise serious caution about using engineered stone for interior design, architecture and renovation purposes. NSW Labor’s election platform includes a commitment to ban engineered stone slabs or benchtops that contain more than 40 per cent crystalline silica by 1 July 2024.

Earlier this year, a media-led investigation alleged that stonemasons have been contracting the potentially deadly lung disease silicosis. The Federal Government responded by announcing that it was considering banning the domestic use of engineered stone.

The Commonwealth and NSW Government are yet to enact legislation to prohibit the utilisation of engineered stone.

On 16 August 2023, Safe Work Australia provided a report making recommendations to the relevant Commonwealth, state and territory ministers on options to prohibit the use of engineered stone. An update is expected once the paper has been considered.

While the outcome of the Safe Work Australia report is yet to be finalised, clubs considering renovations or other building work should conduct due diligence into any risks presented by the use, if any, of engineered stone. Where there are risks, clubs should consider the legislative requirements imposed by workers compensation and work, health and safety laws, and review insurance arrangements.

For further information, please visit Safe Work NSW.

_{[1]  Curtin University. 2022. The future burden of lung cancer and silicosis from occupational silica exposure in Australia: A preliminary analysis. pp. 1-18.}