WorkSafe Tasmania wishes to correct the considerable amount of misinformation that continues to be put out by a CFMEU organiser Mr Kevin Harkins.
Mr Harkins asserts that testing results are “largely irrelevant” (The Mercury 22 September). It is this scant regard for the facts that makes Mr Harkins’ fear-mongering dangerous.
None of the testing of the fill material originating from the Parliament Square redevelopment indicates any contamination that warrants regulatory action or removal of the material from its current location on health or safety grounds.
The facts of the matter are as follows:
• asbestos was removed from the buildings that formed the Parliament Square project prior to its demolition.
• a certified occupational hygienist confirmed in November 2013, prior to demolition, regarding the removal of asbestos, “that the Parliament Square project buildings are fully cleared”.
• a certified occupational hygienist confirmed that asbestos removal work was completed in accordance with the requirements of the SafeWork Australia code of practice.
• testing conducted at the holding site for “Parliament Square fill material” reports (16 September) that there are no free fibres of asbestos and in fact no asbestos detected.
Mr Harkins’ attacks on builders and contractors, the regulator, and state and federal governments are unsubstantiated and unwarranted. It is the unnecessary fear built up in the community that necessitates an informed and factual response.
WorkSafe Tasmania inspectors will continue to provide timely, proportionate, evidence based regulation to advance workplace safety.
Martin Shirley, CEO, WorkSafe Tasmania
