Asbestos warning after deadly bungalow explosion in Milton Keynes
Community advised after discovery of asbestos debris
Asbestos debris has been discovered in Newton Longville, Milton Keynes, following a fatal explosion at a bungalow earlier this month.
A man died days after the gas blast at the home on on Cobb Hall Road on 9th August.
Buckinghamshire Council, assured by the UK Health Security Agency, has stated that the risk to the community is low, suggesting that any asbestos fibres in the air were significantly diluted by prevailing winds.
However, as a precautionary measure, the council advises residents in the area to thoroughly wash items such as clothing left outdoors or garden toys in lukewarm water for a minimum of 10 minutes.
Asbestos, extensively used in building materials during the mid-20th century, is still the largest cause of work-related deaths in the UK.
In a letter, shared by the Newton Longville Parish Council, Buckinghamshire Council advised that any ash or debris found should be reported to local authorities for collection and safe disposal.
If it is necessary to move any asbestos-containing materials, the letter warned they should first be dampened, double-bagged, and transported to a household waste recycling centre.
“The health risks associated with asbestos are generally linked to prolonged or repeated exposure to much higher concentrations of fibres over many years, most commonly in enclosed, occupational settings," the council said.
The statement reassured residents that brief exposure during such incidents is comparatively insignificant.
Buckinghamshire Council also acknowledged concerns and committed to providing ongoing updates as recovery work proceeds.