MATERIALS CONTAINING ASBESTOS have been identified and removed from roads and footpaths following a fire last weekend at an industrial estate in Waterford city.

The fire broke out at a commercial premises at the old Jute Factory on Tycor Avenue at around 6.30pm on Saturday, 9 May and was brought under control the following day.

On Monday, Waterford City and County Council confirmed that asbestos-containing materials were identified in the fire-damaged structure and debris.

However, it added that air monitoring in the aftermath of the fire did not detect elevated asbestos fibre concentrations in the air.

An independent asbestos consultancy was appointed to monitor the environment throughout the remediation works.

Damage seen in the aftermath of the fire. Waterford City and County Council Waterford City and County Council

In a statement this morning, the Council said the clean-up works are being “methodically carried out by trained asbestos personnel”.

It added that asbestos-containing materials have been removed from all surrounding roads and footpaths, and work continues on the external areas of private houses and gardens.

The Council said “background levels of asbestos commonly exist in the air” as it was widely used in building materials up to 2004, after which the importation and sale of all asbestos was banned. 

The Council noted that daily air monitoring since the fire “consistently indicates that no elevated levels of asbestos fibres are present and are below the limit of detection”.

Clean-up operation following the fire Waterford City and County Council Waterford City and County Council

Extensive clean-up operations in the surrounding area are continuing today are anticipated to continue for at least another week.

For operational safety, Tycor Avenue, Griffith Place and Ard na Greine will remain closed to the public during the times the contractors are on site but will re-open in the evenings. 

Meanwhile, HSE public safety advice remains for those within the immediate area of the fire.

This includes not touching any debris, ash or soot particles.

People should also refrain from brushing debris, cutting the grass, and the public should also remove and clean footwear before entering the house, where possible.

The public has also been advised to wash hands thoroughly after any outdoor activities.

The Council added that if small amounts of dust or debris have entered the home, avoid vacuuming or vigorous cleaning, as this may disturb particles and cause them to become airborne.

Instead, any surfaces should be cleaned gently using gloves and disposable damp cloths or wet wipes.

Used cloths and wipes should be placed in a sealed bag immediately after use and placed outside for collection and disposal by the Council’s specialist contractor. 

The Council added that it continues to work closely with the building owners and relevant specialists to ensure the site is fully remediated and managed appropriately.

If members of the public have any concerns, they should contact Waterford City and County Council Customers Services Desks at 0818 10 20 20. 

Meanwhile, the Council announced earlier this week that it, in coordination with government agencies, is providing a “structured response” to support businesses impacted by the fire.