Victoria: the engineered-stone ban changes the starting question

WorkSafe Victoria’s Engineered stone compliance code was published on 14 April 2025 and remains available on its official resource page.

Practical points

This code replaces the 2022 engineered-stone code, which was revoked on 1 July 2024. It explains the prohibition on manufacture, supply, processing and installation of engineered-stone benchtops, panels and slabs, and the limited exceptions.

Some work on products installed before the ban, such as repairs or removal, can fall within an exception. That does not make it unrestricted: applicable silica controls and high-risk crystalline-silica-work duties still apply. Establish the product and proposed activity before choosing controls; protective equipment does not make prohibited work lawful.

An illustrative workplace example

For a hypothetical kitchen refurbishment at a correctional facility, ask the competent contractor to identify the material and legal basis for the proposed work before approving a method. Do not assume that an existing installation can be cut or modified like an ordinary worktop.

Status and source

Following the code provides deemed compliance only for duties it covers. Other lawful methods are possible; the code does not replace legislation. General education, not individual legal or engineering advice.

Read the official WorkSafe resource page and complete official PDF.