2 November 2009

Leading recycler WSN Environmental Solutions has urged Sydney residents to take extra care when disposing of synthetic mineral fibre (SMF), following a significant increase in deliveries of fibreglass insulation at its Sydney network of sites.

Synthetic mineral fibre is man-made mineral fibres including fibreglass, rock wool and ceramic fibres, such as ceiling insulation batts or air-conditioning ducting.

WSN Environmental Solutions CEO Ken Kanofski said the large numbers of Sydney residents who are taking the opportunity to update their home insulation need to follow some important steps when disposing of their old fibreglass insulation.

"These materials must be handled carefully to minimise the release of dust, which may contain microscopic fibres and can result in health risks if accidentally inhaled or swallowed," Mr Kanofski said.

Mr Kanofski said local residents wishing to dispose of SMF at WSN sites simply needed to follow some basic instructions:

• Wrap SMF waste securely in garbage bags or builders’ plastic;
• Completely seal the package, using builders’ tape or duct tape. Packages must be wrapped in manageable sizes for unloading, e.g. small bundles for hand unloading and larger bundles for sliding off a trailer;
• SMF waste must be carefully unloaded to prevent the release of dust. You will be directed to the appropriate disposal area and asked to hand unload the material.
• SMF waste must be booked in one day in advance, by calling WSN on 1300 651 116.

• Belrose: Crozier Road, Belrose, Monday to Friday 7am to 11am (tipping vehicles only);
• Eastern Creek: Wallgrove Road, Eastern Creek, Monday to Friday 7am to 2pm, Saturday 8am to 2pm;
• Lucas Heights: New Illawarra Road, Lucas Heights, Monday to Friday 6am to 2pm, Saturday 8am to 12 noon.