WorkSafe ACT is testing 29 sites known to have received cottage mulch samples potentially contaminated with bonded asbestos.
Four test results received this morning, all from residential locations, returned negative results for asbestos. The prohibition notices on these sites have been lifted.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius thanked the community for their support and cooperation.
“While today’s testing results are pleasing, I need to remind those with potentially contaminated sites to not disturb, handle or dispose of any mulch until testing is completed and WorkSafe ACT has been in contact with instructions,” Ms Agius said.
Asbestos has been confirmed in two mulch samples in the ACT. WorkSafe ACT will determine how to remediate these locations. The mulch has been isolated, and prohibition notices have been issued. The risk to the community remains low.
One site, a residential complex, tested positive to bonded asbestos yesterday. The site has approximately 70 cubic metres of the affected mulch, and accounts for approximately one-fifth of the total volume understood to be in the ACT.
Ten more sites will be tested today and over the weekend. More results are expected in the coming days.
Five sites have been tested and are awaiting results.
WorkSafe ACT will work with accredited asbestos assessors to recommend remediation processes once results are known.
Members of the community who purchased cottage mulch from the suppliers listed below, between 1 March 2023 and 19 February 2024 should contact WorkSafe ACT by email at [email protected]. Inspectors will be in touch as soon as possible.
- Stonehenge
- Biajag
- Cool Green
- Living Simply
- Botanical Places
- Otis Gardening
- Rexley Landscaping
- COD Living Green Sustainable Gardening
- J&D Maintenance
Green Options did not supply contaminated mulch to any customers, and has been removed from the list of potential suppliers.
