1.1. Maintenance or refurbishment of engineered stone

Engineered stone that is already installed in the home or workplace is not a risk to health unless it is disturbed through mechanical processes such as cutting, sanding, grinding, drilling or polishing.

Workers undertaking maintenance or refurbishment of engineered stone using mechanical processes may be exposed to silica dust. This type of work should only be carried out by workers who have had suitable training.

The PCBU must manage risks to health and safety associated with the maintenance or refurbishment of engineered stone. One effective way to manage the risk is to conduct this work in a controlled exclusion zone with additional controls, as outlined in Part 4.4 of this Code.

1.2. Removal

When removing installed engineered stone in an area containing engineered stone, the PCBU should carefully plan before work commences so it can be carried out safely.

Planning involves identifying hazards, assessing risks and determining appropriate control measures in consultation with all persons involved in the work.

The PCBU must consider not only the direct hazards that are associated with this work, but also those hazards related to the work activity and work environment.

When undertaking removal work, a risk assessment is often the best way to determine the measures that should be implemented to control risks. Refer to Part 4 of this Code for information on how to manage and control the risks from working with engineered stone.