THE Department of Defence is trying to locate people who worked at or visited the New England University Coy Depot at the University of New England in Armidale between 1989 and March 2002.

Defence spokesman Keith Jobson said it was possible some occupants or visitors to the depot during that time may have been exposed to very low levels of asbestos.

“Defence has undertaken extensive testing of the depot and has received independent expert advice that there is only a very low health risk from exposure,” he said.

“Defence believes that while the asbestos exposure risk is very low it should – like all health matters – be taken seriously."

When the depot was built, asbestos insulation was placed inside the roof. In 1999, the depot was identified as containing disturbed asbestos fibres.

The depot was subsequently closed and remedial work undertaken to remove the asbestos.

After the building was reoccupied, asbestos fibres were again detected and the depot was closed for a second time in March 2002.

Anyone who worked at or visited the New England University Company Depot at the University of New England between 1989 and 2002 should call the Defence Asbestos Registration Service on 1800 000 655.

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