Alumina fallout reported in Richards Bay

Hillside Aluminium takes corrective actions to address reported alumina fallout in Richards Bay

3 minutes ago

Dave Savides 2 minutes read

One of many vehicles covered in abrasive alumina dust

Regularly fighting against coal dust pollution, Richards Bay residents last week endured an added irritation when white alumina powder descended over businesses, vehicles and homes in the CBD, Alton, Arboretum and Veldenvlei.

While non-toxic, inhaling alumina dust can pose health risks, primarily causing respiratory effects and irritation to eyes, throat and skin. It is also abrasive and may affect machinery and surfaces.

ALSO READ: City of uMhlathuze residents push fight against coal dust

Social media was flooded with complaints and the Richards Bay Clean Air Association (RBCAA) took immediate and decisive action in notifying the regulatory authorities.

Paving in Dollar Drive clearly showing the alumina fallout

Director and communications officer, Sandy Camminga, said: “The RBCAA is aware of the alumina fallout experienced in areas of Richards Bay resulting in substantial deposition of white dust on homes and business premises.

“While many residents have logged official complaints, it is evident from the discussion on social media platforms that the impacts extend far beyond what is assumed based solely on the number of complaints.

“The RBCAA does not take lightly its members impacting negatively on the community. In addition to ongoing engagements with South32, the RBCAA notified the authorities which are legally mandated to enforce compliance”

Host of complaints

One affected resident commented: “For the past four years we have been suffocating under layers of black coal dust and now we are being forced to also breathe in alumina dust with potentially significant health impacts.

“The dust fallout in Richards Bay and the associated environmental and health impacts can no longer be ignored.

“It is high time the medical fraternity stood up and made their voices heard.”

A Dollar Drive business owner said: It’s a health risk because we breathe it in, and it scratches and eats our vehicles and windows, roofs and floors, while a Veldenvlei complainant (with photo) said: “My car was washed yesterday afternoon, and this is what it looks like this morning.”

Arboretum extension had numerous complaints about ‘White ash-like deposits on car and grass’.

Hillside responds

The smelter responded with the following statement on Friday morning:

“South32 Hillside Aluminium is aware of material identified as alumina powder that has been detected on some properties in the Richards Bay area.

“Hillside Aluminium takes its environmental obligations seriously. Immediate corrective actions have been taken to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

“The safety and well-being of employees and surrounding communities remain our highest priority.

“Community members with questions are encouraged to contact Hillside Aluminium via email at hillsidecommunity@south32.net or by calling 035 9088501 during office hours.”

Don’t have the ZO app? Download it to your Android or Apple device here: