 Ministry
of Health
newzealand.govt.nz
©Copyright
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21 December 2008
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%>Auckland
District Health Board
Health Tips Following
Southdown Meatworks Fire
Auckland Medical Officer of Health Dr Denise Barnfather says risks
to public health are very low following yesterday’s fire at the
Southdown meatworks site.
“People may react to smoke and dust with a cough and sore throat, or
by a worsening of asthma”, she says.
“People in the affected area should avoid inhaling dust or debris
from the fire. If in the path of smoke from the fire they can reduce
their exposure by staying indoors, keeping their windows and doors
shut. If they experience any health issues they should see their own
doctor or an emergency department.”
“It is likely that asbestos was present on the meatworks site.
However, initial air testing has shown that the level of asbestos
immediately downwind of the fire is low and unlikely to present a
risk to health. Additionally, samples taken from sheltered locations
at downwind sites 500m, 1000m and 2000m distance from the fire have
tested negative for asbestos. Auckland Regional Public Health
Service is doing further testing to confirm this.”
As a precaution householders in the vicinity of the fire should
clean away any residue from the smoke by doing the following:
Washing down outside horizontal surfaces
Wiping windowsills with a damp cloth
If carpet has been affected, wipe with a damp cloth instead of
vacuuming.
Rewashing any clothes that are smelling of smoke from being on an
outside clothesline.
ARPHS is making no recommendation regarding employees of businesses
in the vicinity of the fire. Individuals with any concerns about
returning to work on Monday should talk to their employers or
contact the Occupational Safety and Health Service of the Department
of Labour directly on 0800 20 90 20.
“Meanwhile all the public has to do is exercise common sense in
reducing their exposure to any fire debris, keep in mind that the
health risks are low from a one-off incident such as this, and seek
medical attention if they have any concerns about their health,”
says Dr Barnfather.
Ends
For further information please contact:
ADHB Communications Manager
Amanda Maclaren
021 804 122.
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