Asbestos found in NuGrow stockpile as Queensland supply chain probe continues
04 Apr 2024•BlueSafe Team•Source: WorkSafe QLD
Workplace Health and Safety Queensland inspectors have prohibited further distribution of a contaminated stockpile at NuGrow in Ipswich after an audit detected a small amount of asbestos.
The asbestos was detected during a proactive audit of Queensland businesses that manufacture and supply mulch. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) is working with NuGrow and businesses that may have received material from the company.
Investigations identified businesses that may have received potentially contaminated soil products between 2 and 26 February 2024. Initial information pointed to 25 entities receiving soil products from NuGrow, but further enquiries reduced that number to 16 businesses.
It had not been confirmed that every business received contaminated soil. The investigation also identified supply to locations of public interest, with further potential locations expected to emerge as supply chain enquiries continued.
WHSQ advised anyone who had purchased soil products from the identified businesses since 2 February 2024, and was concerned the material may have come from NuGrow, not to disturb it.
Affected purchasers were directed to contact the Department of Environment, Science and Innovation on 1300 130 372 for information and advice. Callers can press 2 to speak with an operator without waiting for the menu options.
Information about managing asbestos, including appropriate controls for asbestos work, is available on the Queensland Government Asbestos webpage.
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