More calls have been made to stop the use of engineered stone in Australia amid a silicosis “epidemic”. 

Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by breathing in particles of silica, or crystalline silica, which is used to make kitchen benches and tiles.

Workers who cut or file engineered stone products are being diagnosed with silicosis at a growing rate. Doctors now warn that one-in-three stonemasons tested have signs of silicosis.

The union that represents stonemasons, the Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union (CMFEU), has threatened to ban members from working on engineered stone products by mid-2024 if the government does not step in.

“The science is clear-cut: engineered stone is killing workers,” incoming CMFEU boss Zach Smith said.

“There is no safe level of exposure to engineered stone.

“This is the asbestos of the 2020s.”

Australian Council of Trade Unions assistant secretary Liam O'Brien says Australia is beginning an “industrial epidemic” that will “dwarf” asbestos.

“We need to act urgently to protect workers from this horrible, horrible disease,” he said.

Workplace health and safety ministers are meeting next week to discuss whether a tougher approach is needed.