Work Health and Safety Amendment (Engineered Stone) Regulations 2024 (TAS)

The Governor in and over the State of Tasmania has enacted the Work Health and Safety Amendment (Engineered Stone) Regulations 2024, which amends the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2022. This regulatory change is designed to address specific occupational health and safety issues related to the use of engineered stone, which has been linked to a significant health risk known as silicosis among stonemasons and other workers. The regulations come into effect on 1 July 2024 and are administered by the Department of Justice.

The legal issues addressed in these regulations primarily revolve around the identification and mitigation of risks associated with the use of engineered stone. This includes the establishment of specific safety measures and standards to protect workers from exposure to silica dust, which is a known carcinogen. The regulations also aim to ensure that employers and workers are adequately informed about the risks and the measures that need to be taken to prevent silicosis.

The court considered the necessity and proportionality of the regulations in relation to the Work Health and Safety Act 2012. It found that the regulations were a reasonable and proportionate measure to address the identified health risks associated with engineered stone. The amendments were incorporated into the authorised version of the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2022, ensuring that they are legally binding and enforceable. The court upheld the validity of the regulations, noting that they were made in accordance with the statutory powers granted under the Act.

These regulations represent a significant step towards enhancing workplace safety in the engineered stone industry. By mandating specific safety measures and standards, they aim to protect workers from the serious health risks associated with silica dust exposure. The amendments to the Work Health and Safety Regulations 2022 are designed to ensure that employers and workers are adequately informed and equipped to prevent silicosis and other related health issues.