11 July 2024
Southern Downs Regional Council is rolling out important updates to its Asbestos Acceptance Criteria, effective from 1 July 2024, as part of its ongoing commitment to ensuring the safe and compliant disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) at its waste management facilities.
Southern Downs Councillor Sarah Deane holds the portfolio for Healthy Communities and emphasised the importance of responsible asbestos management as part of sustainable waste management across the region.
“Protecting the health and safety of our community is paramount,” Councillor Deane said.
“By updating our asbestos disposal guidelines, we are taking significant steps to ensure that hazardous materials are handled correctly and safely.”
The most significant change to the guidelines is that all commercial loads to landfill at the Warwick Waste Management Facility must be booked at least one business day in advance and a new weight limit of one tonne and reduced disposal hours apply.
Additionally, in order to comply with State Government legislation, the following requirements apply to all loads, both commercial and domestic:
• If any load is greater than 175kg, an Environmental Authority for the transport of regulated waste is required.
• If any load is greater than 250kg, a Waste Transport Certificate is required.
• A commercial load of any weight requires a Waste Transport Certificate.
Council reminds residents and businesses that ACM will only be accepted when the load is double-wrapped, appropriately sealed and clearly labelled, and that on-site unwrapping and rewrapping of asbestos packages is strictly prohibited.
Any load of ACM that is disposed without meeting the acceptance criteria will be subject to a fee at the gatehouse.
“By reviewing and improving regulatory compliance in our waste management practices, Council is reinforcing its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of waste management practices,” Councillor Deane added.
“Council thanks the community for its cooperation in adhering to the acceptance criteria to keep our landfills uncontaminated.”
Last edited date 12 Jul 2024