AGL Macquarie says it has suspended sales of its coal ash and ash by-products due to concerns over its composition.
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The company’s executive general manager of group operations, Doug Jackson, said AGL took the measure as a precaution.
“We are aware from testing that some of the coal ash from our Bayswater and Liddell power stations show elevated levels of heavy metals including chromium, cadmium and copper exceeding limits set by the Environment Protection Authority,” he said.
“Our external expert’s initial advice is that the levels detected in coal ash samples taken do not pose a risk to public or worker health and are unlikely to pose an unacceptable risk to the environment given the uses to which the coal ash is put.
“We acknowledge failures in our own practices, and a thorough review is underway.”
Independent scientific experts will test the coal ash.
The company has pledged those results will be “fully disclosed”.
The Environment Protection Authority, SafeWork NSW, NSW Health and all businesses that use the ash in products including concrete have been informed.
“We have spoken with all businesses who have purchased our ash and they have indicated to us that their products that have been sold into various markets have met all of the required standards,” Mr Jackson said.
“We have asked those businesses that purchased our ash to cease any further distribution of ash purchased from AGL and have provided assurances we will help them find alternative sources to minimise impacts on their businesses.”
Matt Carr
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
Matt began his Newcastle Herald career as a cadet in 2009. He is a Walkley nominated reporter who has covered councils, police and general news rounds across the Upper Hunter, Port Stephens, Maitland, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Newcastle. Now his focus is on digital storytelling and breaking news.
