An expert in construction and demolition (C&D) disposal operations and fires at C&D sites, Dr. Tony Sperling of Landfill Fire Control Inc., has determined that the underground fire at the C&D site in Hazelbrook has been successfully extinguished.
Dr. Sperling spent two days at the Hazelbrook site, carrying out a detailed assessment. Presenting his findings to Minister of Environment, Energy and Forestry Jamie Ballem today, Dr. Sperling said he found no signs of a fire at the site.
As part of his assessment, Dr. Sperling drilled six 30-foot holes in the disposal pile, as well as 12 more shallow holes, to measure the subsurface conditions. He said both surface and subsurface temperatures were well within the range that would typically be found at a disposal site. The highest temperature measured was 67 degrees C.
The fire at the Hazelbrook C&D site started in December as a result of arson. It appeared to be contained at the time but moved underground and flared up in early January and was later extinguished.
Dr. Sperling conferred with Provincial Fire Marshall Dave Blacquiere in his investigation and agreed that the measures taken under the direction of the Fire Marshall’s Office to bring the fire under control were what he would have recommended.
Minister Ballem said he was pleased with Dr. Sperling’s findings.
“I realize the fire was a source of concern for area residents, as well as the site operators. It’s reassuring to have an independent assessment of the situation by someone with Dr. Sperling’s expertise,” he said.
To minimize risk of future fires, Dr. Sperling said he recommends that the disposal piles be reshaped when the ground thaws, and fire walls – consisting of a one-foot thick layer of soil – be built between the piles.
While in PEI, Dr. Sperling conducted a training workshop on fire prevention and control at C&D disposal sites. Approximately 40 people attended the session including C&D site operators, members of fire departments, and staff of provincial departments and agencies. His visit also included a meeting with the Provincial Environmental Advisory Council, which is carrying out a comprehensive review of the regulations governing C&D disposal sites, and a meeting with members of the Community of Hazelbrook to present the findings of his site assessment.