Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) will continue to provide support in the management of a major fire in West Footscray including air and water quality monitoring.
An update on the situation was given at a meeting held in the Footscray Town Hall tonight (30 August) where about 60 community members heard from representatives of the team managing the incident including the EPA Chief Executive Officer Dr Cathy Wilkinson, The Chief Environmental Scientist Dr Andrea Hinwood, the Acting Chief Officer of MFB, the Chief Health Officer, Department of Education, Ambulance Victoria, Victoria Police and council.
Background
Metropolitan Fire Brigade (MFB) was called to a large industrial fire at a factory in West Footscray at around 5am this morning (30 August 2018).
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) was made aware of the situation soon after and began providing assistance and advice in a support role.
EPA is monitoring air and water quality in the area. This is a dynamic situation and advice will change as more information comes to hand or conditions change. The latest information and advice is available at emergency.vic.gov.au
EPA has provided the following health advice.
Smoke
Smoke can affect people’s health.
People with heart or lung conditions (including asthma), children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and people over 65 are more sensitive to the effects of breathing in smoke.
People with existing heart or lung conditions (including asthma) should follow their treatment plan as advised by their doctor.
If you are experiencing any symptoms that may be due to smoke exposure, seek medical advice or call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest tightness or difficulty breathing should call 000.
For more information visit epa.vic.gov.au/smoke and epa.vic.gov.au/airwatch
Water
Significant amounts of fire water is running into Stony Creek. The water may reach the Yarra River and Hobsons Bay in the vicinity of Spotswood, Newport and Williamston. EPA is currently supporting Emergency Services to respond to the incident. Avoid discoloured water until further notice.
A new alert has gone up on www.yarraandbay.vic.gov.au
Solvents
Acetone and other solvents may be present on the site of the fire. EPA will be monitoring for volatile organic compounds to understand the composition of the smoke and assist in the recovery process.
Smoke from the fire may result in acrid or solvent-like odours that may be detectable hundreds of metres from the site.
Residents who can smell odours are advised to avoid prolonged or heavy physical activity and remain indoors.
Asbestos
Research has shown that building fires involving asbestos-containing materials do not result in levels of asbestos fibres in the surrounding area high enough to cause a risk to health. This is because during a fire the amount of asbestos fibres released into the air is relatively low.
Asbestos fibres change their mineral structure after prolonged heating, often losing their fibrous nature and mechanical strength. The degraded material does not pose a risk to health.
For more information about asbestos and your health go to asbestos.vic.gov.au
Ash
Ash particles fall from smoke. Ash is a fine powder that may be visible on surfaces.
Although too large to breathe into your lungs, ash particles may irritate your eyes, nose or throat. These health effects should resolve quickly.
If you come into contact with ash, wash it off your hands, face and neck as needed. If ash gets in your eyes, gently wash out with clean water.
Practice good hygiene. Wipe down surfaces with soap and water.
Remove footwear before entering your home to avoid walking ash inside.
Rainwater tanks
If you have a rainwater tank and the water from the tank tastes, looks or smells unusual, do not use it for drinking, bathing or for pets.
The town water supply is safe to use for drinking and all domestic uses.
Go to emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/ for more information