In this episode Linda Apthorpe, Consultant Occupational Hygienist and University Lecturer joins us to discuss the topic of asbestos in soil.

Asbestos in soil can be found on a variety of properties, be it residential, commercial or recreational. It may exist for several reasons, including buildings that contained asbestos not being demolished and disposed of correctly, or asbestos contaminated soil used as topsoil or fill material. Primarily, however, asbestos containing materials find their way into the soil due to activities such as illegal dumping. Contaminated soil poses serious health risks and exposure to asbestos can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer.

Guest Bio:

Linda Apthorpe (pictured left) is a Consultant Occupational Hygienist who provides consulting, specialised training and laboratory services to a wide variety of workplaces. She has over 20 years’ experience as an occupational hygienist, is a Fellow Member of AIOH and a Certified Occupational Hygienist.

Linda is also a Lecturer at the University of Wollongong for the Work Health & Safety Program which includes post graduate studies in Occupational Hygiene.

In this episode, Mark & Linda discuss the following:

• What is asbestos?
• What is the difference between non-friable and friable asbestos containing materials?
• How does asbestos containing material get into the ground and soil?
• Why is this such an issue today?
• What are the factors that influence how asbestos in soil is managed?
• What is the health risk associated with asbestos in soil?
• What does asbestos in soil fall under from the regulatory point of view?
• How do they assess/measure/determine asbestos in soil?
• What are some typical control strategies to manage asbestos in soil?
• Who can inspect/assess asbestos contaminated soils?
• Who can remove and transport asbestos contaminated soils?
• If a workplace or homeowner comes across asbestos in the soil in their environment, what steps should they take next?
• Where can listeners go to get further information on asbestos and asbestos related diseases?
• What is your take away message when it comes to asbestos in soils?

Asbestos containing materials making their way into our soil can pose serious environmental concerns, and in turn, pose potential health risks. Asbestos contaminated soil requires effective identification, assessment, remediation and the implementation of exposure control strategies to minimise any risks that may be present to those who work in these locations and to the public who use the spaces. Tune in as we look at the issue of asbestos in soil, the associated health risks, and how to best manage it.

Additional Resources:

• Podcast Transcript
• SafeWork Australia – Asbestos
• Asbestos Safety Eradication Agency
• Worksafe NZ
• Asbestos Awareness
• Australian Government ENHealth – Asbestos a Guide for householders and the general public
• SafeWork NSW Managing Asbestos in or on soil March 2014
• NSW EPA – Managing asbestos in or on soils
• WA Government – Department of Health Asbestos contaminated sites
• WorkSafe Victoria – Asbestos contaminated Soil

Contact a 3M Safety Specialist at scienceofsafetyanz@mmm.com for more information.