This Decision Regulation Impact Statement (Decision RIS) provides an analysis of the impact of a prohibition on the use of engineered stone under the model WHS laws. It builds on the evidence and analysis previously considered by WHS ministers in, and should be read in conjunction with, the Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica at work.

The Decision RIS was informed by an independent expert review of scientific evidence, an independent economic impact analysis, and stakeholder feedback on a Consultation paper released in March 2023. Submissions to the consultation were received from workers, persons conducting a business or undertaking (PCBUs), employer and worker representatives, WHS professionals, medical professionals, academics, government agencies, industry and peak bodies. 

The Office of Impact Analysis assessed the Decision RIS as compliant with the Regulatory Impact Analysis Guide for Ministers’ Meetings and National Standard Setting Bodies (June 2023).

Safe Work Australia provided the Decision RIS to Commonwealth, state and territory WHS ministers on 16 August 2023 for their consideration. WHS ministers have now agreed Safe Work Australia publish the Decision RIS, ahead of their decision later this year.

Questions and answers

• Decision RIS: Background
• Decision RIS: Impact analysis and recommendations
• Decision RIS: Consultation

Information from WHS regulators

Go to information and resources on silica and engineered stone from your state or territory work health and safety regulator.

Supporting information

• Crystalline silica and silicosis
• Crystalline silica and silicosis – Impact analysis and consultation
• Crystalline silica and silicosis – Recommendation on a prohibition on the use of engineered stone
• Decision Regulation Impact Statement: Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica at work
• Prohibition on the use of engineered stone - Engage consultation
• Prohibition on the use of engineered stone – report published 
• Prohibition of engineered stone: Literature review and gap analysis
• Department of Employment and Workplace Relations - Work Health and Safety Ministers’ Meetings

Be Silica Smart

Silica dust (also known as respirable crystalline silica, or RCS) is work health and safety hazard.

Find information on silica in your state and territory to help you manage this work health and safety hazard.

See the resources