Asbestos-containing material found at Old Jute Factory

Asbestos-containing material has been detected in the fire-damaged structure and debris of the Old Jute Factory in Tycor. 

The factory, home to the Causeway's Group Tycor Business Centre, went up in flames on the evening of Saturday May 9. Emergency service workers battled the blaze into the night, with firefighters travelling in from all over Waterford to assist. 

While no casualties were reported, the inferno has destroyed numerous businesses based in the complex. 

On Monday, May 11, Waterford City an County Council (WCCC) confirmed the presence of asbestos-containing materials (ACM) amidst the fire-damaged structure and debris. 

A 'limited' amount of fire debris is believed to have been deposited on the surrounding footpaths and roads of the Tycor site, due to the fire and smoke plumes.

An independent contractor was appointed to oversee the precautionary cleanup of the area, along with an independent asbestos consultancy to monitor the environment. 

As of going to print, the clean-up operation is ongoing. Air monitoring conducted on Sunday, May 10, did not detect elevated asbestos fibre concentrations in the air.

WCCC are working with the HSE to inform the public about the urgent health and safety risks. 

Members of the public are advised to avoid the area as operations continue, and public health advice remains:

· Those not resident in the immediate vicinity are advised to avoid the area 

· If you smell smoke close all windows, doors, and vents · Stay out of smoke – this may mean staying indoors. 

As additional precautionary measures, members of the public within the immediate vicinity of the site are advised to:

· Close all windows, doors, and vents 

· Do not touch / remove any debris, ash or soot particles 

· If necessary, dampen down dust particles with a light dousing of water. It is important not to disturb or aerosolise particles. Do not use a power hose 

· Do not brush debris · Do not use a vacuum

· Do not cut / mow grass 

· Do not bring debris, dust, ash, or suspected ACMs into your home on footwear or clothing 

· Remove and clean footwear before entering the house, where possible · Wash hands thoroughly after any outdoor activities

Members of the public are being urged to send any concerns or queries to Waterford City and County Council Customers Services Desks at 0818 10 20 20.