Asbestos find leads to oval closure and remediation plan
The discovery of asbestos in the grounds of Umina Beach Public School in July has led to the closure of the Year 3-6 oval for the rest of term four, according to principal Ms Karen Wardlaw.
It will also "involve engaging with consultants to develop a design which encompasses all work needed to fulfill all recommendations of our remediation action plan", she said.
Parents have been told: "Umina Beach Public School has a site-specific asbestos management plan in place for known asbestos in ground and has been following the regular inspection and management protocols within this plan.
"From Juty 2023, these regular inspections, including increased inspections following some rain events, meant that a number of fragments have been found.
"Since September 13, we fenced off some additional areas following fragment finds.
"The fragments found in the soil at Umina Beach Public School are those associated with building waste such as tiles and bricks.
"These fragments are bonded asbestos and in good condition, which means they cannot be crumbled using light pressure.
"There is no evidence of other contaminants in the soil.
"Air monitoring in place from September 14 returned results below minimum reportable levels.
"During the Spring school holiday period we did work in some play areas to prevent further erosion."
Play equipment in the middle of the oval was removed "to create more open play space area for students".
Geofabric was installed over the majority of the Northern oval and topped with 100mm soil before returfing "so it can continue to be used"
Synthetic grass was installed on high traffic areas "where turf is unlikely to be successful and that will provide all weather access to the oval space".
A project to create more functional open play space for students in the central quad, with synthetic turf and a sports court, was also finished during the spring school holidays.
Further work will take place on Saturday, November 11.
Vinyl tiles containing asbestos under the carpet in Building G will be removed.
A section of the wall lining behind the fireplaces in classrooms in Building G will be removed.
"The rooms continue to be safely used as the vinyl tiles and wall lining are undisturbed and the tiles are under the carpet.
"Work areas will be cordoned off, and additional safety measures and monitoring will be put in place.
"The areas will be inspected to ensure they have been fully remediated, and the school will receive a clearance certificate before the rooms are reopened to students and staff."
SOURCE:
Newsletter, 18 Oct 2023
Karen Wardlaw, Umina Beach Public School