Update on bonded asbestos contamination in ACT mulch
27 February 2024
WorkSafe ACT is continuing its enquiries into the bonded asbestos confirmed to be present in mulch samples in the ACT, with further testing completed over the weekend.
WorkSafe ACT has now identified 35 sites known to have received the cottage mulch product. Of these, 27 have been tested and 5 are booked for testing today.
Bonded asbestos has been confirmed in 6 mulch samples. 18 samples have tested negative, and 3 more test results are due in the coming days. WorkSafe ACT inspectors are contacting affected parties to inform them of results and advise next steps.
Testing summary:
- 27 sites have been tested; 24 results received.
- Asbestos has been confirmed in 6 mulch samples.
- The mulch has been isolated and prohibition notices have been issued. The risk to the community remains low.
- 18 sites have returned negative test results.
- Two commercial sites are assuming their product is contaminated and have chosen to 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.
Work Health and Safety Commissioner Jacqueline Agius says the test results are encouraging but reiterates 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.”
Work is being undertaken with the ACT Environment Protection Authority to determine next steps for remediation for sites with positive test results.
WorkSafe ACT has also confirmed that Green Options, Botanica Places and Rexley Landscaping have not distributed or supplied any potentially contaminated mulch to members of the public.
WorkSafe ACT is continuing its enquiries 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 continue to keep the community informed as test results and other information becomes available.
Statement ends.
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