Asbestos Discovered At Raaf Base Wagga

Asbestos Discovered At Raaf Base Wagga

Three Fairchild Metroliner aircraft used as training aids at the Royal Australian Air Force School of Technical Trades (RAAFSTT) in Wagga, New South Wales were recently discovered to contain asbestos.

Aviation Technical Staff and students, serving and former serving, as well as non-Defence civilian staff, may have come into contact with this asbestos.

As a precaution, the aircraft involved have been sealed and subject matter experts are assisting Defence to conduct tests to determine potential levels of exposure.

Although initial indications suggest the nature of any exposure is likely to be minimal, current staff and trainees are being provided with personal medical advice.

The existing Defence Asbestos information hotline will be updated to address any concerns of former service personnel. Current serving members are encouraged to contact their local Defence medical centre.

Defence is concerned for the well being of the current and former Australian Defence Force personnel.

The safety and well-being of all Defence people is of the upmost importance and a range of initiatives have been implemented to assist all people who may have worked with these aircraft.

Defence is actively locating and contacting all personnel who may have been at risk.

Defence has set up a team to examine the issue in more depth and to provide immediate advice for the way ahead.

The three aircraft used at Wagga were acquired as non-flying training aids in 1999. Safety assessments based on legislation, and available knowledge at that time, did not identify any material hazards.

The presence of asbestos was identified during a routine maintenance inspection.

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