ASBESTOS: Department launches investigation into supplier

'AT THIS stage we do not know how many people have used the fields.'

WORKPLACE Health and Safety Queensland has commenced an investigation into the supplier that delivered contaminated topsoil to Collegians Junior Rugby League and Warwick Central State School as far back as December 2017.

The investigation comes after both sites tested positive for suspected asbestos containing material on Friday.

Bright hazard tape and tall temporary fences are now in place at the football field and school oval, warning children and adults to keep their distance from the quarantined areas.

Dressed head-to-toe in blue coveralls and face masks, licensed asbestos consultants undertook further testing of the contaminated sites over the weekend.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland has launched an investigation into the soil supplier. Picture: Marian Faa

The tests will be used to determine what further action is required to remove contaminants and restore safety to both areas.

Warwick Central principal Christine Dolley said further "fibro" type material was found at WCSS at the weekend.

"During this time air monitoring sensors were in place at the school and I am pleased to advise that these sensors have not detected anything unusual in the air," Mrs Dolley wrote in a letter addressed to families last night.

"This is very pleasing news because asbestos has to become airborne to pose a risk."

WHSQ has launched an investigation into the soil supplier.

"If the samples taken from the Warwick sites on Friday are confirmed to contain asbestos, WHSQ will investigate if any other sites have been supplied with the same soil and take action as required," the spokesman said.

"Until this has happened, it isn't appropriate to comment on what action, if any, will be taken in regards to the supplier.

"At this stage we do not know how many people have used the fields."

Testing will reveal what action is needed to restore the grounds to safety. Picture: Marian Faa

The spokesman was unable to confirm where the topsoil contractor is based and if any other places have been supplied with contaminated soil.

"At this stage our priority is to ensure both Warwick sites are safe," he said.

The Daily News is seeking further updates from WHSQ on the results of soil testing and the possibility of further contamination.

But WHSQ has urged the community to remain calm until test results have been finalised.

"The pieces of asbestos material (we found) were bonded, and could not be crumbled, pulverised or reduced to powder by hand pressure," the spokesman said.

"This coupled with the very minor amounts seen at the fields means the likelihood of usage of the fields having caused airborne asbestos fibres in concentrations greater that the environmental background or the workplace exposure standard for asbestos is negligible."