Recall of tree marking aerosol
Recent safety advice has prompted DELWP and CFA to immediately recall DY-MARK Mine Marking aerosol paint used to mark hazardous trees on the fireground and during planned burning operations.
This recall is being undertaken as a safety precaution following a risk assessment on the contents of this aerosol paint.
It has been determined DY-MARK Mine Marking Aerosol contains methylene chloride which has been listed in Safe Work Australia’s Hazardous Substance Information System as having ‘carcinogenic potential’. DY-Mark aerosols are included in Hazardous Tree Marking Kits which are standard in most firefighting appliances, particularly those in regional areas.
To ensure we maintain the health and safety of our members, the use of this product must cease immediately and all cans recalled. It is to be removed from all CFA vehicles and stored away from any access areas.
Each brigade should return these cans of paint to their district headquarters where they will be transferred to be destroyed in a safe and environmentally responsible manner.
In general, the use of the paint would be very uncommon within CFA. It is used to mark hazardous trees in open, ventilated areas and CFA members would also be wearing PPC and therefore be protected from exposure to the spray. A safe alternative is being investigated as a replacement.
While this product is commercially available and widely used across various industries, as a further precaution medical advice was obtained which has indicated:
- that there is minimal risk from the correct use of this product
- agencies use this product to mark a tree in the open air where maximum ventilation is present allowing dispersal of any fumes or vapours
- its use involves very short spray bursts to mark the tree.
Further, we will keep brigades informed of this safety recall and share any additional information as it comes to hand.
Author: Euan Ferguson