Asbestos warning after Oldbury factory blaze - residents told to avoid debris, road still closed
Sandwell Council assures residents that health risks from asbestos debris are low, but advises on safe handling and disposal methods.
Sandwell Council said in a statement that the premises may have had an asbestos cement roof.
The council said that it was possible that some of these materials may have been released in the smoke plume and deposited in ash and debris on a section of Pel Crescent.
However, the UK Health Security Agency advises that the health risk is low because asbestos fibres are usually trapped within the material and are not easily released into the air.
Sandwell Council will be assessing the situation and arranging for decontamination of the area – likely early next week.
If debris must be moved urgently, residents should:
- Dampen it with water first
- Avoid sweeping or vacuuming
- Wear gloves
- Double-bag larger pieces before disposing of them
- Avoid mowing lawns if dust is present until it has been cleared
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as breathing difficulties, coughing, or watery eyes should contact their GP or NHS 111.
The full statement from Sandwell Council stated:
“It has been identified that the premises may have had an asbestos cement roof.
“It is possible that some of these materials may have been released in the smoke plume and deposited in ash and debris on a section of Pel Crescent.
“However, we have been advised by the UK Health Security Agency that this is of no particular health concern as asbestos fibres are not readily released from asbestos containing material into the air.
“The majority of asbestos fibres are trapped within the material.
“It is important to reassure people that the risks to health are low and there is unlikely to be any significant exposure to asbestos following fires involving materials containing asbestos. There is no direct evidence of long-term health risks from fires involving asbestos containing materials but is it sensible that any asbestos containing debris is removed to minimise any potential exposure.
“Sandwell Council will be assessing the situation and arranging for decontamination of the area – likely early next week.
“If residents do find ash or debris from the fire on their property they are advised to leave it alone and contact the local authority on 0121 368 1177.
“If it is absolutely necessary to move or remove the debris yourself (for example if it’s on your car windscreen) first damp down the debris using water, and either flush small particles away to drain, or wearing protective gloves to prevent scratches, pick up larger pieces carefully and place them in two plastic bags (double bag, with one bag inside the other), seal and dispose of at the tip. Do not sweep or vacuum the debris as this could cause airborne dust. If there is evidence of dust in your garden, do not mow the lawn until it has been removed and cleared up.
“If you experience any symptoms such as difficulties breathing, watery eyes or cough as a result of the fire, please contact your GP or NHS 111 as appropriate.
For more information contact Sandwell Council on 0121 368 1177.”
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