Coucnils sayds an amount of asbestos waste was found in a green waste bin earlier this month.
The contaminated green waste bin was collected by Council’s waste contractor, Cleanaway, and as a result of incorrect disposal, contaminated the materials in the truck, as well as compromising the health and safety of staff.
Council Acting Senior Manager Business and Economic Development, Andrew Pearce, reminded residents to follow the proper protocol when disposing of asbestos.
“Asbestos can be disposed of at Council’s Buttonderry and Woy Woy Waste Management Facilities by residents for a cost providing strict guidelines are followed and it is less than 10 metres square,” Mr Pearce said.
“This includes notification being provided 24 hours in advance and asbestos must be wrapped in manageable bundles with two layers of plastic with a thickness of at least 0.2mm (builder's plastic) and sealed using adhesive packaging tape.”
Transportation of more than 10m2/100kg of asbestos waste (friable and/or bonded) is required by law to be tracked via the WasteLocate app and can only be undertaken by a licenced asbestos removalist, unless in an emergency.
Council Director Environment and Planning, Scott Cox, reminded residents that asbestos could be present in one out of every three Australian homes, especially those built or renovated before 1987.
It is often found behind walls, in ceilings and around hot water pipes and fences, among other places.
If well maintained and left undisturbed asbestos is unlikely to pose a health risk. Renovators should visit asbestosawareness.com.au for user-friendly information including the Asbestos in Your Home – The Ultimate Renovators Guide video and the 20 Point Safety Check.
If caught dumping asbestos fines of up to $7,500 per person or $15,000 for an organisation can be issued by the NSW EPA.
Visit
www.centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/asbestos for more information on how to safely dispose of asbestos.
