Ban the bench: Scientists bid to stop cancer-causing building material

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The independent National Dust Disease Taskforce, helmed by several eminent Australian health figures, recommended strengthened work health and safety measures, better monitoring and checks on workers’ health, and more industry regulation.

It also flagged a ban of the importation of engineered stone products by 2024 if there was no improvement in regulatory compliance and evidence indicated preventive measures were not sufficiently protecting workers.

“The significant rise in cases of accelerated silicosis has been associated with the increased importation and use of artificial or engineered stone in Australia,” the report stated, noting there were still questions over whether resins used in the product also contributed to silicosis, or if it was solely the silica content.

Carey said natural stone, which still contained silica but a much lower level of silica dust, was an alternative for the industry, and there were new products which used crushed glass rather than stone or had different formulations.

ACTU assistant secretary Liam O’Brien said workers across a range of industries were exposed to hazardous levels of silica dust, and stronger health and safety laws were needed to protect them.

“A ban on engineered stone, along with stronger protections for all workers in all industries will prevent a projected 100,000 cases of silicosis in coming decades,” O’Brien said.

“We can take this simple step now to protect workers from an incredibly dangerous product which has already shortened the lives of too many.

“We have a chance to prevent illness and suffering for a generation … if we act now to keep workers safe.”

Safe Work Australia is currently calling for public submissions on managing silica dust in the workplace. The consultation period is open until August 15.