The presence of asbestos at a reserve has been localized to the soil, with no detection in other materials being brought onto the site. Safety measures are being taken to protect workers and the public, with oversight from industry experts including hygienists and licensed asbestos removalists. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has been notified, and health and safety conditions continue to be met, with air monitoring in place to ensure safety. Workers on site are required to wear personal protective equipment, and contaminated soil is being prioritized for removal.
Following the discovery of asbestos-containing material in woodchip mulch at Don McLean Reserve in Spotswood, investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the material. Another playground at Hobsons Bay Council has been closed as a precaution, with contaminated soil sealed and removed from the site. Local authorities are working with the EPA to investigate the situation, with ongoing monitoring to ensure safety. Efforts are being made to address any potential risks and protect the community from exposure to asbestos.
Eltham MP Vicki Ward highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing asbestos-related issues, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. The EPA is actively involved in investigations and monitoring to address the concerns raised by the presence of asbestos in public spaces. The local community is being kept informed of developments and precautions being taken to mitigate any potential health risks. Concerns have been heightened in light of recent incidents of asbestos contamination in public spaces in other regions, such as the widespread asbestos-mulch scandal in NSW.
The company responsible for landscaping the park, CityWide Service Solutions, has faced scrutiny and questions about the supply chain of mulch used in the playgrounds. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the asbestos material was deliberately dumped in the mulch or if it was present in the mulch used for landscaping. The council is working to identify other parks where the same mulch was used and is conducting inspections as a precautionary measure. The subcontractor responsible for landscaping at the reserve has not been disclosed, and authorities are working to ensure public safety and address any potential risks associated with asbestos contamination.
The closure of the Coburg playground and ongoing investigations underscore the importance of proactive measures to address asbestos contamination in public spaces. Efforts are being made to remove contaminated soil, monitor air quality, and protect workers and nearby residents from potential exposure to asbestos. The involvement of industry experts and regulatory authorities is crucial in ensuring the safety of the community and addressing any concerns related to asbestos contamination. Continued monitoring and precautions are being taken to address the situation and prevent any further risks to public health.
Overall, the response to asbestos contamination at the reserve and other public spaces highlights the importance of effective safety measures and proactive investigations to address potential hazards. The commitment to ensuring the safety of workers, residents, and visitors is paramount, with ongoing monitoring and precautionary measures in place. Collaboration between local authorities, industry experts, and regulatory agencies is essential in effectively addressing asbestos-related concerns and mitigating any risks associated with exposure to asbestos-containing materials. Efforts are being made to address the situation transparently and responsibly to protect public health and safety.
