The ACT s Chief Health Officer, Dr Shirley Bowen, has agreed with ACT Waste, Environment ACT and Workcover to temporarily close the West Belconnen Landfill due to unacceptably high levels of lead at the site. The site will remain closed until any risk to the public is removed. Dr Bowen believes the general public in the Belconnen area is not at any significant risk as the tip is relatively isolated. Residents who have visited the tip simply to deposit their rubbish should not be concerned.
Lead poisoning becomes a significant health issue only after prolonged periods of exposure.
Dr Bowen advised that employees who have worked at the tip will have tests to determine their level of exposure. We are more concerned about people who have had longer periods of exposure, and the employees of the tip will be tested and have treatment and counselling if at all necessary.