Yarloop bushfire clean up identifies asbestos and other contamination

State recovery controller Dr Ken Michael and state recovery coordinator Bob Hay met with the media on Thursday to discuss the ongoing operation. 

“The fire that devastated Yarloop exposed historic asbestos and heavy metal contamination, including lead in some parts of the town,” Dr Michael said. 

“As we continue to inspect and demolish properties, we are finding evidence of historic asbestos and heavy metal contamination which requires specialist management and removal.” 

Mr Hay said the hazardous material was likely from demolition works between 1957 and 1964 which was then buried under the concrete slabs of homes destroyed in January’s bushfires. 

“The issue first arose in preparation for Anzac Day when we were preparing the grass area to the South and the area in front of the workshop,” he said.  

“It became apparent in front of the workshop there was heavy metal and lead contamination and to the south we picked up a lot of surface material that was clearly not related to the fire. 

“This led us to investigate further taking sub-soil tests over 30 pits which suggested the contaminates were present. 

Currently 29 homes in Yarloop have been demolished with 17 underway and 13 more to start in the next fortnight. 

Mr Michael said the historic contaminants have added to the complexity of the task the clean up crew are undertaking. 

He also said they are likely to add to the overall cost but not the overall time. 

“We understand community concerns at the rate and cost of the clean-up but the state government is committed to cleaning up destroyed and impacted residential properties and open spaces in Yarloop to ensure the town is safe and fit for future habitation,” he said. 

“The extent of the contamination at Yarloop is yet to be determined and not expected to impact on the original clean-up schedule of between six to nine months.” 

Access to Yarloop will continue to be restricted for the general public in the coming months in order to ensure public and community safety. 

Mr Michael said residents have been permitted into Yarloop and if they would like quotes on rebuilding, contractors will be granted permission to visit Yarloop when it is safe to do so.