Where there is uncertainty about the status of benchtops, panels or slabs as engineered stone products, you should test the goods.
Do this before importing to verify what the goods are made of.
Where this occurs, we will need to confirm the sampling and testing relates to the imported goods. To match the testing to the imported goods we may seek batch numbers or other evidence including:
- written evidence of the sampling process
- photographs
- accurate records of decisions (what was and what was not sampled and why).
This will enhance assurances that the goods are not engineered stone.
Testing certificates from outside Australia
We will only accept testing certificates produced from outside Australia if the testing is:
- a laboratory recognised through the Mutual Recognition Agreement scheme by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), and
- is accredited by the local accreditation authority for the purposes of engineered stone identification using an appropriate analysis method, such as petrographic analysis and x-ray diffraction.
Further testing may be needed
Where assurances are insufficient, we may ask the importer to undertake testing.
Extra costs
While sampling by a competent person and testing is completed, the importer will incur extra costs for:
- storage
- transport of the goods under customs-control.
As per the Work Health and Safety regulations 2011 a competent person is “a person who has acquired through training, qualifications or experience the knowledge and skills to carry out the tasks”.