Health & Safety: Our Commitment in the New Era of Engineered Surfaces
At Granite Transformations, safety has always been at the heart of how we innovate, manufacture, and install our surfaces. As the industry evolves, so do we. With the national ban on engineered stone containing crystalline silica coming into effect on 1 July 2024, we are proud to have fully transitioned to our new generation of zero–crystalline silica engineered surfaces.
These changes reflect our commitment to protecting our employees, installers, partners, and customers – today and into the future.
Our New Silica-Free Formulation
From 1 July 2024, all Granite Transformations surfaces are manufactured using an advanced, silica-free formulation made from recycled glass, high-performance polymer resins, and premium pigments.
This new material offers:
- The same durability and long lifespan customers expect
- Beautiful, high-quality finishes suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and laundry spaces
- A safer fabrication process for workers
- Full compliance with all updated Government regulations
Our purpose remains unchanged: to deliver cutting-edge, thin and lightweight surfaces without compromise.
Are Older Granite Transformations Surfaces Safe in the Home?
Yes. Crystalline silica–related health risks only occur during fabrication, when dust can be generated if proper safety controls are not followed. Installed surfaces in the home – whether quartz-based, glass-based, or natural stone – are completely safe for everyday use.
During minor repairs or on-site adjustments, only a minimal amount of dust is created and does not pose any health risk to consumers.
Can My Existing Granite Transformations Benchtop Still Be Repaired?
Absolutely. The Government has approved exemptions for repair, removal, modification, and disposal of legacy engineered stone surfaces installed before the ban. This means we can continue servicing and supporting your existing benchtop when required.
All surfaces, old and new, remain covered by our 10-year warranty.
What’s the Difference Between the Old and New Materials?
The difference is in the raw ingredients:
- Previously: Engineered stone commonly used natural materials containing crystalline silica (such as quartz or granite) bound with resins.
- Now: Our new formulation contains zero crystalline silica. It is made from recycled glass and advanced polymer resins while maintaining strength, beauty, and performance.
The manufacturing process is similar – what has changed is the composition, ensuring a safer and fully compliant product.
Understanding Silica, Granite, and Quartz (Plain English)
Quartz and granite are natural materials found throughout the earth and contain crystalline silica. Silica is also found in everyday products like concrete, bricks, tiles, glass and ceramics.
While raw granite contains silica, Granite Transformations no longer uses any materials that contain crystalline silica in the production of our new surfaces. Customers can enjoy the same aesthetic appeal on their kitchen benchtops with the peace of mind that comes from using a safer, next-generation material.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is an occupational lung disease caused by long-term, high-level exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust – typically in workplace settings where safety controls are not followed.
It is entirely preventable with correct equipment, training, and dust-control measures.
How We Keep Our Team Safe
Even before the ban, Granite Transformations operated under some of the strictest safety standards in the industry.
Our approach includes:
- Cutting ultra-thin slabs that significantly reduce dust
- Using certified H-Class extractors and advanced dust-capture tools
- Mandatory PPE and safe operating procedures
- On-site cutting protocols designed to protect both workers and customers
- Regular air-monitoring testing, consistently returning results well below industry exposure limits
Across nearly three decades of operation, no Granite Transformations tradesperson has been diagnosed with silicosis – a record we are immensely proud of and committed to upholding.
Our Commitment Moving Forward
For over 30 years, Granite Transformations has been a leader in smarter renovation solutions. Our shift to silica-free surfaces reinforces that legacy.
You can trust that every Granite Transformations product – past, present, and future – is supported by our:
- 10-year warranty
- Commitment to safety
- Industry-leading innovation
- Dedication to delivering a beautiful, reliable, and responsible renovation solution
If you have any questions about our new materials, your existing surface, or health and safety practices, our team is always here to help.