Bonded asbestos has been discovered at Allambie Heights Public School as part of a widespread investigation into contaminated mulch across Sydney.
The discovery at Allambie Heights Public School adds to the situation’s urgency, with authorities working swiftly to assess and address the risk. The discovery at Allambie Heights Public School adds to the situation’s urgency, with authorities working swiftly to assess and address the risk. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) revealed that mulch tainted with asbestos has been found at numerous locations, prompting an expansive testing initiative. The investigation, initiated in early January, marks the largest undertaken by the EPA in decades.
Asbestos contamination, though concerning, underscores the need for stringent monitoring and remediation efforts to ensure the safety of communities.
“Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. The risk of contracting these diseases increases with the number of fibres inhaled and the risk of lung cancer from inhaling asbestos fibres is also greater if you smoke. People who get health problems from inhaling asbestos have usually been exposed to high levels of asbestos for a long time. The symptoms of these diseases do not usually appear until about 20 to 30 years after the first exposure to asbestos,” per NSW Health.
Expansion of Testing Sites
The contamination was detected in mulch in a garden bed at the school, prompting immediate action from authorities. As part of precautionary measures, testing commenced at seven schools throughout Sydney on Friday, 16 February 2024.
These efforts aim to identify any further instances of asbestos contamination and mitigate potential risks to public health.
Whilst the investigation unfolds, affected areas are being cordoned off, and remediation efforts are underway to ensure the safety of students, staff, and the broader community.
Reassurances Amidst Concerns
Despite the findings, officials have sought to reassure the community regarding the potential health risks of bonded asbestos. Education Minister Pru Car emphasised that expert advice indicates the risk remains low, particularly when the material is undisturbed. The NSW EPA has mobilised resources to expedite testing and tracing efforts, collaborating with Fire and Rescue crews to bolster investigative capabilities.
Meanwhile, the company implicated in distributing contaminated mulch cooperates with authorities, albeit with some resistance. As the investigation progresses, stringent measures are being considered to address regulatory shortcomings and prevent future incidents.
Despite the scale of the investigation, authorities stress that the risk remains manageable, with most affected settings deemed low risk. However, vigilance and caution are paramount, with the NSW EPA urging individuals to report any concerns promptly.
Published 21-February-2024
