“We cannot ascertain whether this incorrect disposal of asbestos has been intentional or not; however, we are very disappointed at the actions of those who have dumped the material and placed both staff and the public at risk,” council’s general manager David Rowe said. “Aside from the potential health risks, it will now cost council tens of thousands of dollars to undertake a professional clean up to dispose of the material.”

To ascertain the full extent of the contamination and exact cost and timeframe of removal, council has set up a meeting with the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) later in the week. Immediate action has, however, been taken to cordon off the areas where the asbestos has been identified. A licensed asbestos removal specialist will be engaged to undertake the clean-up.

Residents need to be aware that slight changes will occur to transfer-station operations during the clean-up. Specifically, staff now conduct stringent checks on all deliveries. Residents may no longer drop off material directly to waste piles; instead, it needs to be placed in the pit or waste bin under staff supervision. Staff will be provided with further training on detection, monitoring and awareness of asbestos in building material.

Residents, builders and contractors need to be aware that council's transfer stations do not accept asbestos waste. Asbestos can be taken to Bald Hill Ecofill Regional Landfill, Jugiong or Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre and Mitchell Resource Management Centre, ACT. Residents should contact these sites prior to delivery of asbestos. The EPA has extensive information about asbestos and asbestos removal: http://bit.ly/1TPTZkS.