Asbestos Dust/Particles Found in C and K Sets

Bulletin 32 – 2017,

To: All RTBU Sydney Trains Members,

Your RTBU has been told that asbestos dust/particles have been found in various C and K Sets, particularly in the driver’s side Circuit Breaker panels.

We understand that the asbestos was present in samples taken between March and June 2017 at both Flemington and Hornsby Maintenance Centres.

As a result, the RTBU has formally written to CEO Mr Howard Collins seeking answers about the health and safety of all employees who may have come in contact with panels. This includes Train Crew, Fleet Maintenance and Train Presentation staff.

At the time of writing, we believe Sydney Trains sees no issues with the dust. They say it has been contained. They also say it is being immediately removed according to requirements  and therefore poses no credible risk. This response is wholly inadequate.

Your RTBU is concerned by Sydney Trains’ failure to tell their employees and their Union that dust had been found; regardless of its supposedly “contained” status and it posing “no risk” to employees.

Any Member concerned about the safety of working a C or K set should advise their local manager of their concerns. Members should request not to be placed in work environments of questionable safety until Sydney Trains can provide satisfactory information to allay the concerns of Members.

** Stop press: Sydney Trains has advised they will provide a full response to the issues raised by COB today – more information to follow**