Asbestos News

The discovery of buried asbestos sheeting in a floral reserve has prompted an investigation in the Australian state of Victoria.

Representatives from Parks Victoria found the asbestos sheets buried more than 10 feet deep at a Croydon North floral reserve, according to the Maroondah Leader.

Authorities were unable to completely remove the cancer-causing material from the ground so the area was re-covered with soil and geo-textile fabric, reports the news source.

Warrandyte State Park ranger-in-charge Conrad Annal told the news provider that the recent work was part of an Environmental Protection Authority investigation.

An asbestos removal company will hand in an extensive report in the near future.

“Initial reports are that not a lot of [asbestos] was found so it has been pretty positive,’’ Annal said. “But until we get the report back and consult with the EPA we will not have a direct action."

The illegal dumping of asbestos can be very dangerous as it can allow the deadly mineral's fibers to become airborne. If these fibers are inhaled they can lead to a number of serious illnesses such as malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer.