Liverpool City Council has revealed plans to re-occupy level six of its Moore Street building.
That level was cleared after some current and former council staff members working in the building over a number of years were diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
Preliminary findings have indicated there were no levels of ionising radiation “above backyard levels” detected – a major cause of concern at the time and a known proven external cause of thyroid cancer, as advised by NSW Health.
Acting council CEO Jason Breton said the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation has completed its testing of the Moore Street building for ionising radiation and its full report is expected shortly.
Concerns were also raised by staff about non-ionising radiation from telephone towers near the Moore Street building and the new council building in Scott Street.
“Testing has also been completed for non-ionising radiation at both locations,” Mr Breton said.
“Levels at both locations are below the general public exposure limits specified by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.
“NSW Health has indicated that the community is exposed to natural and artificial electromagnetic radiation (non-ionising) every day in our normal lives.
“Common examples of artificial sources of radio frequency EMR include radio and TV broadcasting, mobile phones, wireless networks, and microwave ovens.
“According to our advice, there is no clear evidence that EMR negatively affects human health,” Mr Breton said.
“Liverpool Council is acutely aware that this has been a very difficult time for many of our employees, some past employees and some members of the wider community,” he said.
“I hope this information provides some peace of mind not only to those still working in the building but also to those who are still facing medical challenges.
“The council will continue to keep those affected informed as further information is received,” Mr Breton said.
As a result of this information, level 6 of the Moore Street building will be cleared for reoccupation.
Before this happens, a series of information meetings will be scheduled that will be attended by NSW Health, a leading expert in the field and the testing companies so the results can be discussed and any questions from staff answered.
