Cade Lucas
Firefighters and officers from the Environmental Protection Authority remain at a recycling facility in Laverton North this morning, despite a fire at the site being downgraded.
Twelve workers were evacuated from the site in Plummer Avenue when the fire first broke out early on the afternoon of Tuesday January 2.
None of the workers were injured.
Fire crews arrived at the scene at approximately 1.51pm to find a large amount of recycling material on fire.
By 3.30pm more than 70 firefighters were battling the blaze which sent plumes of smoke across much of the western suburbs.
Residents in nearby suburbs including Laverton, Truganina, Altona, Williamstown, Spotswood and Sunshine were warned to avoid the area and stay indoors, while four neighbouring factories were evacuated by police.
The fire was brought under control by 5.30pm, contained in a large pile of scrap metal where it continues to burn.
Four fire crews remain on the scene, pulling apart the scrap metal and extinguishing all flames and hot spots.
Ambulance Victoria paramedics are there monitoring firefighters’ health, while The Salvation Army are providing them with food.
EPA and Melbourne Water staff are monitoring air and water conditions and WorkSafe has been briefed.
The situation is not considered a risk to the community and no action is required.
Firefighters are expected to remain at the recycling facility until at least midday.
