UPDATE 12.40pm:

The CFA says an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the presence of asbestos at its Huntly training site is continuing.

A spokesperson said the advice of expert hygienists remained that the hazardous material was found on a small number of tiles located in rubble at the site and it posed no danger to those working or training there.

As such, the facility remains open.

“Since notifying EPA of the discovery last month, CFA has been working closely with their officials on options for removal,” the spokesperson said.

“While this has taken longer than originally planned, EPA has agreed on a suitable approach culminating in a clean-up notice which was issued on Monday.

“This has allowed CFA to issue tenders for a suitably accredited contractor to remove the material, work which will be overseen by an expert hygienist.”

EARLIER:

The Environment Protection Authority has issued a clean up notice to the CFA after industrial waste containing asbestos was found at its Huntly training site.

EPA North West regional manager Dr Scott Pigdon said an inspection was carried out in late June, when about 1000 cubic metres of concrete rubble was found.

“The rubble had been there for over 10 years and our tests revealed it contained asbestos material,” Dr Pigdon said. 

He said the notice required the CFA to ensure the waste was safely removed and deposited at a site licensed to receive it by October 21.

Dr Pigdon said the rubble was in an isolated area of the site, was fenced off and signed, and posed no risk if left undisturbed. 

EPA was made aware of the waste following a call to its pollution hotline. 

Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected pollution by calling 1300 372 842 or at the website.