TasNetworks is now speaking with 49 people who were
potentially impacted by toxic chemicals through their work with the
Hydro-Electric Commission between the 1960s and 1980s.
Dr Roger Drew, the toxicologist commissioned by TasNetworks
to help investigate this matter, reviewed scientific literature regarding
potential associations between the chemicals 2,4,5-T and 2,4-D and medical
conditions, including cancer.
The Melbourne-based toxicologist confirmed these chemicals
were "commonly used throughout the world for controlling vegetation
beneath power lines, forestry access routes and rail lines".
"At that time they were considered safe," Dr Drew
said.
Concern was raised in the 1970s about "a particular
dioxin" present in 2,4,5-T due to the way the herbicide was made. This
dioxin was not in 2,4-D.
"At this time, we do not know what the dioxin level was
in the 2,4,5-T purchased by HEC," Dr Drew said.
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