Asbestos count rises on Southern Downs, more sites uncovered

CONTRACTOR issued with notice to cease supplying soil as WHSQ continues to determine total number of sites affected.

SITES UNCOVERED: A contractor has been issued with a notice to cease supplying soil as WHSQ continues to determine total number of sites affected. Picture: roman023

SOIL testing has confirmed the presence of bonded asbestos at six different sites around the Southern Downs, bringing the number of contaminated locations to double what was originally thought.

Of the seven sites that have so far been investigated by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, six have tested positive for small amounts of asbestos debris.

The "chrysotile" asbestos found was in bonded form and could not be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder by hand pressure.

"It is important to note, asbestos does not pose any significant threat when in a bonded, non-fibrous state, and is not airborne," a WHSQ spokesman said.

Known locations where testing occurred include two fields leased by the Collegians Junior Rugby League Club (one of which is sub-leased to the Warwick Touch Football Association) and Warwick Central State School.

Asbestos has been found at all three locations, which have been sectioned off with temporary fencing.

Licensed asbestos specialists have been engaged to remove the asbestos from the soil and the soil is being kept wet as a precautionary measure.

SOURCE: Department of Health. Picture: Supplied

A WHSQ spokesman confirmed four other sites were located in the Southern Downs but declined to reveal further details.

"At this stage, four other locations have been identified as having received the contaminated soil," he said.

"Workplace Health and Safety Queensland is working to determine where the asbestos material has come from, and where it has been supplied to. 　

"In the meantime, if we suspect there is any chance of soil being contaminated with ACM we are taking direct action to prevent its further distribution.

WHSQ has commenced an investigation into the supplier of the contaminated soil.

"The supplier involved in this matter has been issued a notice to cease supplying and moving any soil while this matter is being investigated."

"A notice is in force preventing the supplier from distributing any more of the soil," the spokesman said.

The Daily News will continue to liaise with WHSQ to provide updates.

SOURCE: Department of Health. Picture: Supplied

Exposure is common but not all will get sick

We are all exposed to low levels of asbestos in the air we breathe every day according to a report by the Australian Department of Health.

Whether a person goes on to develop an asbestos-related disease depends on a range of circumstances or exposure factors.

These include the level and duration of exposure, length of time since first exposure, the fibre type, and concurrent exposure to tobacco smoke and other carcinogens.

"When in good condition, bonded asbestos products do not normally release any asbestos fibres into the air and are considered a very low risk for people who are in contact with them, as long as appropriate safety precautions are used when they are disturbed," the report states.

"However, if the material is damaged or crumbling (that is, has become friable), or is disturbed by breaking, cutting, drilling or sanding, fibres are released into the air."

The longer the period of exposure and the more fibres inhaled increases the risks of asbestos-related diseases later in life.

For further information contact the Queensland Government on 13QGOV (137468) or visit www.health.qld.gov.au/asbestos