Fines have been issued in recent weeks after Lithgow City Council stated asbestos waste was unlawfully disposed of at landfills within the shire.
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In a statement, Lithgow City Council stated one commercial operator has been fined $8000 and an individual could be fined $4000 under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 and associated Regulation for Unlawful Disposal of Asbestos Waste.
Asbestos waste is only accepted at the Lithgow solid waste facility and must be disposed in accordance with the Customer Asbestos Disposal Procedure available on council's website.
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"The unlawful disposal of asbestos waste is a health and safety risk to workers and the general public using the facility," mayor Cr Ray Thompson said.
After safe removal of bonded asbestos the following requirements for disposal will be enforced:
- Asbestos waste must be double wrapped in heavy duty plastic and taped dust tight
- Must be booked in for immediate burial at the Lithgow Waste Facility at least 24 hours beforehand
- Must be clearly labelled with "Caution Asbestos"
- On arrival at the Lithgow Landfill, advise the weighbridge operator and follow instructions.
Additional measures are required for friable asbestos, including the requirement to have a licensed contractor for removal.
For more information on the safe management of asbestos or any other waste related questions you can visit council's dedicated waste and recycling webpage at http://lithgowwaste.com.au.
