The NZCTU remains strongly committed to banning engineered stone in New Zealand and implementing better occupational health protections for all workers working with silica-containing materials.
In this submission to MBIE, the NZCTU outlines that we have an opportunity to learn from Australia’s experience by implementing a full ban of engineered stone products and developing accompanying regulation to ensure the safe handling of legacy stone. It also sets out the need to enhance protection for all work involving silica materials, and for better awareness of, and support for, workers regarding occupational health and workplace exposures.