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Recent testing in the Rocherlea Industrial area has found lead in the dust in the local environment. While there is no evidence of harm to the community, this has prompted further testing by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), to determine the extent of environmental contamination and any actions required to keep the community safe.
Public Health Services (PHS) is working closely with the EPA and the community as we work through the next steps, including further environmental testing in February 2024 to determine the level and extent of contamination.
As part of the precautionary approach, PHS is advising people who work or live very near to the industrial area that blood testing for lead is available. This includes:
people who have lived or worked in the Rocherlea industrial area north of George Town Road between the East Tamar Highway and Lilydale Road in the last 12 months
residents of Newnham who live on Hardinge Avenue or Lilydale Road (between George Town Road and Archer Street).
If you are in these groups, you can register for a blood test by completing the online form, or arrange a blood lead test through your usual doctor.
The online form will ask if you would like to have a blood test form emailed to you, or if you would like to attend a lead testing clinic at Mowbray Medical Centre on 14 February or 21 February. Only people in the groups listed in the “Do I need to get tested?” section should fill in the online form.
Key advice to people and businesses near the industrial area is:
- Lead has been found in dust samples near a recycling plant.
- No harm to the community has been found.
- Any risk can be reduced by regularly clean floors, ledges, windowsills, and other flat surfaces with a damp mop or damp rag.
- If it is dusty outside, try to keep dust out by closing windows and doors.
- Wash and dry your hands before eating or preparing food.
- If you smoke or vape, wash and dry your hands first.
- More testing is underway and the EPA and PHS will keep the community informed.