WorkSafe ACT is continuing its enquiries into the bonded asbestos in mulch samples in the ACT; further testing was completed over the weekend.

Thirty-five sites are known to have received the cottage mulch product. Of these, 27 have been tested, and five are being tested today.

Bonded asbestos was found in six mulch samples. The mulch has been isolated and prohibition notices have been issued. The risk to the community remains low.

18 samples have tested negative, and three more test results are due in the coming days.

Green Options, Botanica Places and Rexley Landscaping have not distributed or supplied any potentially contaminated mulch to members of the public.

Two commercial sites have assumed their product is contaminated, and will move forward with their own remediation work with licensed asbestos assessors.

One commercial site has organised its own testing, and will notify WorkSafe ACT of the outcome.

WorkSafe ACT inspectors are contacting affected parties to inform them of results and advise next steps.

Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius said the test results were encouraging, but reiterated her message from last week.

“I’m very pleased to see the number of negative test results rise, but it’s important to remain cautious at this stage until we know more.

“I’d like to remind Canberrans again to please do not disturb, handle or dispose of any mulch until testing is completed and WorkSafe ACT has been in contact.”

WorkSafe and the ACT Environment Protection Authority will determine the next steps to remediate sites with positive test results.

WorkSafe ACT is inquiring into the businesses known to have purchased the cottage mulch to determine where it has been distributed. This allows potentially affected consumers to notify WorkSafe ACT if they have been supplied this product.

WorkSafe ACT will keep the community informed as test results and other information becomes available.