Mulch sample taken from a residential complex in Denman Prospect has returned a positive test for a small amount of friable asbestos.
Worksafe ACT has isolated the area from the public, and the site is being treated in the same way as the nine other sites that returned positive results for bonded asbestos.
Inspectors have issued a Prohibition Notice to not disturb, handle or dispose of mulch material until further assessment and remediation action can be arranged. Residents are being contacted.
The mulch was provided by the original NSW supplier, Greenlife, and then delivered into the ACT.
Unlike bonded asbestos that is mixed with cement or resin to keep fibres in place, friable asbestos can more easily be crushed into a powder, and has a higher risk of airborne fibres.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius has reassured the public, stating that the identified issue poses a low risk to public safety.
“Out of the 100m3 of mulch on the site, only 0.2g of friable asbestos was identified, despite extensive testing of the site,” Ms Agius said. “The report from the Licenced Asbestos Assessor shows that the friable asbestos was only found in one of sixteen samples taken from across the residential complex.
“I have been advised by the assessor that the quantities and localised nature of the contamination on this site constitute a low risk to the public safety.”
The ACT Government said it would immediately remediate residences that have mulch that tested positive. It will ask owners of sites that tested negative whether they wish to have further testing undertaken.
The ACT Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will work with WorkSafe ACT to respond to the situation. The EPA said that local green mulch producers are following rigorous contamination control processes. There is no known impact on any ACT Government-owned public facilities, including parks, playgrounds, and public schools. Recycled timber mulch is not being produced in the ACT.
If you purchased Cottage Mulch, please do not disturb or try or remove it and contact WorkSafe ACT on [email protected], or call the ACT Government Taskforce on 13 22 81 for information and referral to the appropriate area of Government.
