Telstra has announced it will move to immediately implement a range of initiatives aimed at countering the threat of asbestos in its copper trenches.

The moves come after sub-contractors working on the rollout of the National Broadband Network in western Sydney were subjected to asbestos exposure.

Telstra announced it will field a new workforce of up to 200 specialists to inspect and supervise all asbestos-related problems in Telstra’s infrastructure.

Telstra’s Chief Operations Officer, Brendon Riley, said that the company was ‘deeply concerned by the situation’ and would move to take all possible precautions to strengthen the company’s asbestos management processes.

“These are strong actions reflecting our absolute priority on the safety of our workers, our contractors and the community,” Mr Riley said. 

“This is our responsibility so we will take direct control of all asbestos related activity performed by our contractors.” 

Mr Riley said Telstra would cooperate with the Office of Asbestos Safety to establish and lead a high level working group, with involvement from NBN Co, Comcare and our lead contractors, to implement and monitor an asbestos management plan for maintenance or the NBN rollout. 

“This will include engaging all relevant authorities and other parties, including unions, to ensure stakeholders are involved with the steps Telstra is taking to ensure compliance with all Federal legislation and codes of practice,” Mr Riley said.