The NSW Heads of Asbestos Coordination Authorities (HACA) has engaged PricewaterhouseCoopers to conduct an independent investigation into loose-fill asbestos in New South Wales.
HACA is comprised of NSW government agencies that have a role in the management, monitoring and response to asbestos issues and is chaired by SafeWork NSW.
Free ceiling insulation testing is currently taking place to identify the full extent of affected homes within 26 local government areas across NSW.
Concerned residents in homes built before 1980 can contact Service NSW on 13 77 88 to see if they are eligible to have their property tested and assessed for the material.
Free independent technical assessments are also being offered for a 12 month period to affected homeowners, to advise and confirm the adequacy of risk controls in each of the identified homes.
Testing remains ongoing and as at December 22
- Licensed asbestos assessors are continuing to undertake property inspections and testing
- 2637 premises in the 26 council areas have registered for the free sampling service. These LGAs have been identified through the analysis of archival government records.
- 410 properties have been tested and all samples have returned a negative result
The NSW Government will consider the findings of the independent investigation and possible measures to assist affected householders. The Chief Health Officer has considered the ACT Taskforce Report and confirmed the need to wait for the results of the current NSW investigation.
Last week the NSW Government announced an assistance package to help impacted residents safely manage loose fill asbestos as well as the establishment of a Loose Fill Asbestos Insulation Taskforce.
For further information and advice call 13 10 50 including FAQs and fact sheets visit www.safework.nsw.gov.au
As the investigation is ongoing, no additional information is available until the next update.
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