During the unprecedented flood in Lismore and the surrounding areas, which reached a record height of 14.4 meters, the region suffered catastrophic damage.

The flooding had a severe impact on local communications. It became crucial to restore communication services promptly. However, the floodwaters had disturbed and damaged hazardous building materials, including asbestos, posing a potential exposure risk to the Critical Response teams responsible for reinstating communications at each site. 

In response to this urgent situation, RARE Environmental was tasked with ensuring the safety of all known and potential asbestos-containing materials (ACM) on each site, enabling secure access for Telstra and its subcontractors.  

• Urgent mobilisation of fully compliant and Telstra inducted asbestos make safe team including independent Occupational Hygienist. 

• Logistical planning and liaison with local authorities to gain priority access to each flood affected site.  

• Sourcing appropriate materials to assist in the make safe procedures along with asbestos consumables.  

• Attend each site, and in conjunction with the Occupational Hygienist identify all known or potential ACM of concern. 

• Undertake temporary make safes of each asbestos item which included partial removal, encapsulation, or complete enclosure. 

• Clearance and endorsement of each make safe job by the Occupational Hygienist. 

• Strict compliance with all legislation including controlled removals wearing full PPE and containment and disposal of all wastes. 

• Prompt reporting back to Ventia/Telstra so response teams could undertake their reinstatement works.