Ministry: No asbestos threat at Civic Centre building

In line with international best practise, air sampling will be conducted throughout the removal process to ensure there remains no threat to the general public.

The building materials found containing asbestos in the Suva Civic Centre have been completely sealed since June 1, 2017. They continue to present no threat to the general public, the Ministry of Employment said yesterday.

The statement said: “Air tests conducted in areas around the Suva Civic Centre by Pacifica Environmental Services have confirmed that there is no threat of airborne contamination as a result of this event. The results of the test confirm that members of the public are not at-risk from asbestos in any areas near the Suva Civic Centre.

“In line with international best practise, air sampling will be conducted throughout the removal process to ensure that there is no threat to the general public.

“The building materials have been properly prepared for removal and the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations is working closely with the Suva City Council, Department of Environment and New Zealand contracting firm, Contract Environmental, to finalise the action plan for the safe removal of the building materials this week.

“The Ministry is taking extreme care with regards to this situation and will not proceed with the removal of the building materials until an action plan according to international standard is met and absolutely guarantees public safety.

“The Ministry of Employment is the only authoritative source on information regarding this incident. Reports that do not originate from the Ministry should be disregarded.”