WorkSafe will “closely monitor” Victorian manufacturers after issuing more than 25 compliance notices and seizing more than 65 engineered stone samples following the product’s ban last month.

The regulator’s Silica Field Team visited 52 sites last month and put “non-disturbance notices” on nearly 1000 engineered stone benchtops, to prevent their supply to businesses and consumers.  

The blitz follows last month’s national ban on engineered stone, which has been linked to silicosis and other dust diseases. Since 2018, more than 680 Victorian workers have been affected by silicosis, with 20 deaths recorded.  

The regulations allow for work with the product if it relates to the removal, repair or modification of kitchen benchtops installed before the July 1 ban, with strict control measures required.  

WorkSafe earth resources and silica manager Ben Wright says his team has referred two ”duty holders” for investigation under suspicion they supplied and processed engineered stone after the ban.   

“WorkSafe has acted quickly to intercept illegal products from entering Victoria, stopping further production and supply of stockpiled engineered stone,” he said. “Inspectors have also issued improvement notices to duty holders who didn’t have the necessary hazard control statements or information about the silica content of alternative products such as porcelain or sintered stone.”  

The regulator says it “will not hesitate to take strong compliance and enforcement action”.   

“Most businesses are doing the right thing and are moving away from engineered stone, but unfortunately, we have found a small number have continued to put workers at risk,” WorkSafe health and safety executive director Sam Jenkin said.  

“WorkSafe will continue to closely monitor the stone supply and manufacturing industry, so if you’re still working with engineered stone, expect a visit from our inspectors soon.”