Genoa: burning shack with asbestos

A tool shed in Ne, Val Graveglia, Italy, was destroyed by fire. Asbestos within the shed necessitated the involvement of the CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear) group of the Genoa Fire Brigade, resulting in an extended period to extinguish the fire and requiring the decontamination of the vehicles. The subsequent clean-up operations necessitated the implementation of safety protocols, entailing a commitment of over six hours by the dedicated fire brigade team. Despite the extensive damage, no injuries or instances of intoxication were reported. Investigations are underway to reconstruct the sequence of events and establish the cause of the fire. The European Commission has identified asbestos as a significant health hazard, citing the inhalation of asbestos fibres as a potential cause of serious illness, particularly in individuals with prolonged and high-level exposure to asbestos.