The national hardware chain says engineered stone used for kitchen and bathroom benchtops won’t be found on its shelves from 2024. There have been concerns about the rising rates of silicosis in workers who dry-cut engineered stone products like the popular Caesarstone for a while. The disease has been likened to asbestosis because its fine dust can cause an incurable lung disease if inhaled. A recent Safe Work Australia report into engineered stone made the case for a ban, and federal, state and territory ministers will meet next month to make the call. But union members have been protesting outside Bunnings stores, and yesterday the company said it was “proactively making this decision to allow suppliers and customers time to prepare for a transition”. So if you’re doing a reno in the next few months, you might like to adjust your plans accordingly…