Low risk of exposure
Volume 11, No. 44, June 01, 2006

AN ASSESSMENT has found that personnel who used the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) facility at Holsworthy Barracks were at low level risk of exposure to airborne asbestos fibres.

HDPE Maj-Gen Mark Evans said analytical techniques were used to assess the levels of airborne asbestos fibre concentrations. Asbestos-identification analysis was also done to determine the presence of respirable-size fibres in the fine soil-type matter in asbestos-cement material at the training facility, which is now closed.

The asbestos identification analysis concluded that no respirable (breathable) fibres were present in the material. Airborne testing concluded there was no risk to health during periods of no activity at the USAR site. An accredited laboratory, using approved guidelines, conducted the analysis.

“As no conclusive records or results are available for airborne fibre sampling that occurred during USAR site activities, various case studies and other supporting information were used to estimate exposure for personnel conducting various activities at the site during these times,” Maj-Gen Evans said.

These personnel included instructors and participants in USAR courses, staff preparing tasks at the site for USAR courses, including movement of the stockpiled material.

“The risk assessment concluded that exposure for personnel involved in the types of activities at the USAR site are immeasurably small and cannot be distinguished from background concentrations of airborne asbestos as found in suburban environments,” Maj-Gen Evans said.

The ADF and the NSW Fire Brigade are cleaning the site, which will remain closed until certified safe.
If you think you were exposed to asbestos at USAR, contact your local Defence Medical Centre or the Defence Information Hotline on 1800 000 655 for more information.