New asbestos procedures at Woy Woy tip

A new procedure for the safe disposal of asbestos at the Woy Woy tip has been introduced by Gosford Council.

The changes include double wrapping the waste in 200 micron (plastic), sealing with waterproof tape and packaging the waste in smaller sizes to prevent rupturing.

Customer appointments for asbestos disposal are also requested to be made 24 hours in advance to ensure ease and efficiency at the landfill site.

Gosford Council's acting manager waste and emergency services Mr Glen Pestell said the changes reflected council's ongoing commitment to public health and safety

"As most people are well aware, asbestos is a highly dangerous product that can have fatal consequences if handled inappropriately.

"For this reason, council has introduced a new, improved procedure incorporating changes designed to make the process more streamlined and efficient.

"We are encouraging everyone to be vigilant about the correct disposal of this type of waste, not only for their own safety but also the wider community," Mr Pestell said.

On the back of this new procedure, Council rangers will be cracking down on illegal dumping with significant penalties including fines and potential legal action for those who do not comply.

Woy Woy Landfill is the only waste disposal centre where the public can legally dispose of asbestos waste in the Gosford LGA.

Its hours of operation are Monday to Friday 7am to 4pm and weekends between 8am and 3pm.

For more information about asbestos disposal, phone the Woy Woy Landfill on 4342 5255 or visit www.gosford.nsw.gov.au/waste_services.

Media release, 15 Aug 2013

Glen Pestell, Gosford Council