The McGowan Government is today reminding workers and residents that WorkSafe is available to help with asbestos-related clean-up issues in the wake of ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja.
Ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja caused widespread damage throughout the Mid-West and Wheatbelt Region and sparked a massive clean-up effort including of suspected asbestos materials.
WorkSafe sits within the Safety Regulation Group of the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety. It plays a significant role in ensuring and protecting the rights of all employees to work in a safe and healthy working environment.
With certain types of demolition, WorkSafe requires five days’ notice of the work, but under the current circumstances, the Department will fast-track notifications and consider accepting bulk notifications of more than one address in one notification.
It is anticipated there will be considerable asbestos removal work in the area, but it is expected to mostly be non-friable asbestos, which does not require notification to WorkSafe.
An information sheet on the main hazards associated with clean-up work will also be published on WorkSafe’s website.
WorkSafe inspectors will be sent to the area when power supplies return and accommodation is available. They will be made available primarily to provide information and answer questions about safety issues.
Residents and workers can also contact WorkSafe directly via its website, telephone or email.
Disaster assistance has also been made available for communities with widespread damage caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja.
The Local Government Areas of Chapman Valley, Dalwallinu, Greater Geraldton, Morawa, Northampton and Shark Bay are eligible to receive financial assistance through the jointly funded Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements.
As stated by Industrial Relations Minister Stephen Dawson:
“The clean-up efforts following ex-Tropical Cyclone Seroja could last months and even years.
“The most important consideration throughout this period will be to ensure everyone stays safe and healthy.
“WorkSafe is just one of the State Government agencies offering assistance to residents and workers who have travelled to the region to help the rebuilding effort.
“I would encourage anyone requiring assistance with work health and safety matters to contact WorkSafe.”
