Update on asbestos supply chain issue (wind turbines)

“The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is continuing to work closely with wind industry manufacturers, relevant regulators and our member companies, following the discovery of asbestos within brake pads used in the internal service lifts of some wind turbines supplied by third-party manufacturers.

“The number of impacted sites is yet to be established. Testing is underway across wind projects, as a precautionary measure. Our members are reporting slight delays in test results coming back due to Australian laboratories also testing recalled coloured educational sand products.

“Air quality testing is being conducted by independent hygienists and, to date, has confirmed no detection of airborne asbestos found in any affected turbines and therefore zero risk of community exposure. The risk to maintenance workers has also been assessed as very low, given the brake pads are enclosed within the lift system.

“Where asbestos has been identified in the brake and clutch pads of the service lifts, affected components have been isolated, an exclusion zone established, and the process of replacement is underway.

“Regulators have been fully briefed and are satisfied with the swift and thorough response taken by industry to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of all personnel. 

“Manufacturers of these parts generally have global operations and service a range of industries that involve working at heights. The industry is in the process of reviewing how asbestos-containing materials were able to enter Australia and make their way into project supply chains.

“The Clean Energy Council and our members take safety extremely seriously. We have zero tolerance towards any asbestos being on any project anywhere in Australia and will continue to work with regulators and governments to resolve the issue.

“We will continue to support members, share information across the industry, and work with authorities to ensure this issue is fully resolved and safeguards are strengthened where required. 

“We will provide further updates as investigations continue.”