Traces of asbestos have been found in brake and clutch pads used inside service lifts of wind turbines, prompting safety recalls, quarantines, and renewed scrutiny of offshore wind supply chains.
The asbestos was detected in internal lift components supplied by Chinese manufacturer 3S Industry, used by several major wind operators including Goldwind Australia, Vestas, and Beijing Jingeng Energy.
The discovery does not involve the turbine’s steel tower or monopile structure but rather the enclosed mechanical lifts that carry technicians up to the nacelle for maintenance.
Industry officials confirmed the material identified is white asbestos, a banned substance in Australia since 2003.
Affected components and supplier response
Testing revealed that the asbestos was confined to the brake and clutch pads of the service lift systems.
Because the lifts are sealed and not exposed to the open air, public health authorities have determined there is no airborne risk to surrounding communities.
3S Industry, the Chinese supplier, has acknowledged noncompliance with import standards, and wind companies are coordinating to remove and replace all affected parts.
Independent hygienists conducted air quality testing across multiple sites and found no measurable asbestos in the air, confirming minimal risk to the public and limited exposure potential for maintenance workers.
Safety measures and regulatory investigation
Affected lifts are being quarantined, and operators have suspended use until replacement parts can be installed.
Australia’s Clean Energy Council is working with manufacturers and government agencies to review procurement processes and ensure compliance with asbestos-free material standards.
Officials noted that while the asbestos was found in small enclosed components, any handling or disturbance during maintenance could pose a risk to workers without proper containment procedures.
Broader implications for global wind projects
The discovery has sent ripples through the international wind industry as developers increasingly rely on global supply chains to source turbine components.
Industry experts said the incident highlights the importance of stricter material testing and supplier verification, particularly for critical parts manufactured overseas.
No public exposure has been detected, but multiple Australian wind farms have initiated full safety reviews and component replacements to eliminate any remaining asbestos risk.
Asbestos found in brake pads of wind turbine service lifts from a Chinese supplier has triggered quarantines and replacements across Australian wind farms, though officials report no airborne risk to the public.
