Following confirmation that flammable liquids are present in waste material being stored at a number of sites in Campbellfield and Epping, WorkSafe, Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) and other agencies will take direct action to remove the stored chemicals.
In an announcement made yesterday (8 Jan), it was revealed that WorkSafe would use powers under the Dangerous Goods Act to ensure community safety.
"This is an excellent example of government agencies coming together and working collaboratively to manage a situation that presents a risk to the whole community," said EPA Acting CEO Damian Wells.
"EPA will continue to work with and support WorkSafe, local councils and fire agencies. Engagement with the local community has continued through the week and updates will be provided as the ongoing management of the storage sites progresses."
To read the full text of the WorkSafe media release go to http://www.worksafenews.com.au/component/k2/item/723-agencies-take-control-of-chemical-removal.html
BACKGROUND
Following an investigation into the West Footscray industrial fire of August 2018, Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) as part of an inter-agency working group that included EPA, fire agencies, Victoria Police and WorkSafe, discovered several sites in Epping and Campbellfield illegally storing large quantities of unidentified chemicals
Immediate steps were taken to secure the sites, maintain high levels of safety and to preserve site integrity for further investigation.
All agencies worked together to progress the best method for the ongoing management of the sites and for the safe identification and disposal of the chemicals.
Local businesses are being contacted with updates and EPA’s investigations are continuing.