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Asbestos Found in Australian Wind Turbines!
24 Nov
Summary
- Deadly asbestos found in brake pads of Chinese wind turbine lifts.
- Investigation launched into widespread contamination concerns.
- Health risks to workers remain unclear, community exposure ruled out.
An urgent safety alert has been issued for wind farms nationwide following the discovery of asbestos in Chinese-manufactured wind turbine parts. The hazardous material was initially detected in brake pads for tower lifts at the Goldwind Cattle Hill wind farm in Tasmania. WorkSafe Victoria and SafeWork NSW confirmed white asbestos was also found at multiple other sites, initiating a joint investigation with renewable energy company Goldwind Australia.
The affected brake pads were supplied by Chinese firm 3S Industry, a major supplier to numerous Australian wind farms. This discovery has fueled fears that the contamination could be more widespread, potentially impacting turbines across the country. While the immediate health risks to workers and contractors are still being assessed, authorities have stated there is no suggestion of community exposure or environmental contamination.
Goldwind has restricted access to affected turbines, notified authorities, and is engaging specialist asbestos removalists. Other energy providers supplied by 3S Industry have also been informed. Regulators are working with interstate and national bodies, as well as the supplier, to determine appropriate control measures and assess further action under occupational health and safety laws.
