The EPA has required Hobsons Bay City Council to investigate the potential harm or risk of harm to human health caused by asbestos in reserves or land areas managed by the council. The agency will also review the council’s procedures regarding the sourcing of mulch, safety and quality checks, replacement, and maintenance. Although the EPA had already inspected 59 mulch producers in Victoria without finding asbestos, they emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and improvements.
In light of a recent scandal in New South Wales where asbestos-contaminated mulch was found in 75 sites, including schools, the discovery of contaminated materials in six council-run parks in Victoria has raised concerns. Despite the low level of contamination found, the EPA has requested the council to fence off affected areas as a precautionary measure until further examination and remediation can be done. The agency is investigating potential sources of contamination, including contamination at the site of mulch arrival, existing building rubble on the site, and illegal dumping or natural flooding.
Hobsons Bay mayor Matt Tyler defended delays in determining the origins of asbestos-contaminated mulch, stating that efforts were focused on identifying affected parks and prioritizing community safety. The council is working to determine the origins of the contaminated mulch and is cooperating with the EPA in providing necessary information on suppliers and contractors. As experts call for stricter regulations on contaminants in mulch and soil processed at recycling plants, the EPA is conducting tests at various parks in response to community reports of contamination.
The EPA is testing potential asbestos at the PA Burns Reserve dog park after reports of contaminated mulch spread around the toilet blocks. Additional contamination has been found in nearby parks, leading to fencing off of affected areas. Premier Jacinta Allan emphasized the need to let the EPA do its job and stated that Victoria already has strong regulatory powers in place. Residents can report suspected asbestos-containing mulch or illegal dumping to the EPA’s contact center.
The council’s message is to follow the EPA’s health advice regarding the asbestos contamination found in various parks. Despite the need for improvements and further understanding of the causes of contamination, the council is working on enhancing its processes and procedures. The discovery of asbestos in some parks highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of public spaces and the need for continued vigilance and monitoring to prevent potential harm to human health and the environment.
In conclusion, the EPA’s investigation into asbestos contamination in mulch in Victoria, particularly in Hobsons Bay, underscores the importance of regulating contaminants and enforcing safe disposal practices. The discovery of contaminated materials in council-run parks has prompted measures to identify and contain the affected areas. Public cooperation and vigilance are essential in reporting any suspected contamination to the authorities for prompt action. The ongoing investigation and remediation efforts aim to protect public health and prevent further harm from asbestos exposure in community spaces.
