WA’s respiratory institute welcomes import ban on fake stone products

Today, the Institute for Respiratory Health welcomes the Federal Government’s latest decision to ban the importation of silicosis-causing fake stone products from 1 January, 2025.

This move strengthens Australia’s position as the first country to fully prohibit the use, supply, and now the import of these materials, further protecting workers from the devastating effects of silicosis, a severe and irreversible lung disease caused by silica dust exposure.

Tradies will now also be required to comply with new workplace health and safety rules for the handling of all materials containing at least one per cent crystalline silica, which can include products such as sandstone and bricks.

Engineered fake stone, commonly used for kitchen benchtops, has been directly linked to a surge in lung diseases among Australian stonemasons. Fake stone products will be stopped at the Australian border from next year, marking the final step in a national ban on the once-popular building material, which can cause the deadly dust disease silicosis.

Melita Markey, Director of the Institute for Respiratory Health, emphasised the importance of this extended ban in safeguarding the lung health of Australian workers.

“Recent research indicates that one in four stonemasons will develop silicosis, a potentially fatal yet entirely preventable disease linked to silica dust exposure,” Ms Markey said.

“Silicosis is an incurable lung disease, and early intervention is crucial. The new ban on imports provides an essential extra layer of protection, ensuring that no more harmful engineered stone products enter our country.”

Ms Markey also highlighted the urgent need for research funding to support those already affected.

“While these policies are a welcome relief, they have come too late for many. Many workers are already struggling to breathe, requiring lung transplants and facing premature death. Immediate funding for lung disease research and pastoral care is essential to prevent further tragedies.”

The Institute for Respiratory Health has also called for the global community to take similar actions, urging countries worldwide to recognise the dangers of engineered stone and implement bans to protect their workers.

With the Australian Border Force set to enforce the import prohibition from 1 January 2025, backed by $32.1 million in government funding over two years, Australia is leading the way in occupational health and safety.

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