During the upgrade of Glen Waverly railway line in Melbourne, asbestos fears have arisen as Metro Trains and the Firewood Association of Australia have confirmed that old wooden sleepers contaminated with asbestos are being stolen and used as firewood. The Firewood Association has already banned their members from selling sleepers because some apparently pose health risks when burned. Despite this, and security at the railway line, these sleepers are being stolen.
These asbestos fears were confirmed when the association began to receive calls from people burning these sleepers saying they are suffering from bronchitis and asthma related symptoms. The asbestos used in train brakes and brake locks are now trapped on the exterior of these sleepers and when burned the asbestos combines with the ash and creates a very easy way for asbestos fibres to become airborne and inhaled.
This is seriously dangerous as even inhaling a small amount of asbestos can lead to a person contracting asbestos related diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. The number of people diagnosed with mesothelioma is expected to rise in Australia over the next decade which is worrying as 660 cases of mesothelioma were recorded in 2007. Australian states including NSW, Victoria and South Australia have introduced legislation to assist those suffering asbestos conditions pursue an asbestos compensation claims in Australia, including a specific legislation for Victorian asbestos compensation claims.
