DENDERWINDEKE – Following a substantial fire incident on May 24 that involved a shed covered in corrugated sheets containing asbestos, local authorities in the Ninove sub-municipality have mandated the excavation of several residential gardens to mitigate health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

The fire, which originated from a hangar, resulted in asbestos particles contaminating an area larger than 6,400 square meters.

Acting mayor Ilse Malfroot confirmed that the municipal council has contracted a certified asbestos removal company to carry out the cleanup, which is expected to commence shortly.

Residents were informed about the extent of contamination during a recent meeting held at the city hall, where officials provided details about the safety measures to be implemented during the cleanup process.

Malfroot stated, "The report shows that 6,400 m² needs to be cleaned up.

We appointed a certified asbestos cleaner, which means that we as a city will monitor the cleanup work."

Local resident Chris Van den Broeck expressed concern regarding the delayed notification about asbestos findings in his home.

"We are now 12 days further.

It was only after four days that I received the message that asbestos particles were found in the upper rooms of my house.

In the meantime, I had already vacuumed the entire house.

Since then, only my ground floor has been suitable for living," he remarked.

Ilse Bellemans, another affected resident, lamented the loss of their garden's usability: "We have a beautiful garden, but it is now full of asbestos and we have not been allowed in for 12 days." Residents reported significant damage to their properties, with some gardens covered in large pieces of asbestos debris.

Excavations are planned to reach a depth of 15 centimeters in affected gardens.

The asbestos removal company is expected to begin operations this week.

During this time, access to the contaminated areas will be restricted to prevent the migration of asbestos fibers.

To ensure safety during the removal processes, physical barriers and plastic sheeting will be deployed around contaminated zones, alongside signage to deter unauthorized access.

Workers involved in the cleanup will be equipped with comprehensive protective gear, including disposable coveralls, gloves, eye protection, and HEPA-filter respirators to minimize exposure to airborne asbestos fibers.

In addition, local authorities have provided guidelines for residents outside the main contamination zone, advising caution when handling any suspected debris originating from the fire.

Residents are encouraged to wet any found material, wear disposable gloves, and transport it to recycling centers in sealed bags to mitigate any health risks.

Ongoing air monitoring will be conducted during the removal to detect any potential asbestos fiber release into the environment, along with strict protocols for the handling and disposal of contaminated materials to ensure community safety.