Statement regarding bonded asbestos

16 Feb 2024

St John of God Richmond Hospital can confirm it has been advised by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) that small amounts of bonded asbestos have been found in some areas of mulch recently laid at the hospital.
 
The mulch was tested as a part of the EPA’s investigation into asbestos in mulch across Sydney, and was located within the gardens recently landscaped around the hospital’s redevelopment site. The work site has been fully secured throughout the development and not accessible by patients, visitors or caregivers.
 
NSW Health advises bonded, or non-friable asbestos, is considered low risk to human health and the environment. Our priority is the safety of our caregivers and patients, and we are working closely with our construction partners who are taking all necessary steps as directed by the EPA. The area will remain securely fenced until the necessary remediation works are complete.