Planning under way for removal of asbestos

Planning has commenced for the safe removal of material containing asbestos at the Lautoka Hospital.

The contaminated material was discovered last month following a fire which gutted the hospital’s operating theatre.

It was uncovered in air-conditioning ducts and pipe insulation installed during the building’s construction in the early 1970s.

The discovery has not posed a threat to the public.

Lautoka Hospital, in consultation with the National Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Service, is currently in the process of selecting a qualified contractor in line with the code of practice for the safe removal of asbestos.

During the removal process, the hospital will undertake appropriate measures such as erecting barricades, enclosures, and signage as an additional precaution to safeguard workers and the general public.

OHS will also regularly conduct air sampling and monitoring to ensure that the workplace, surrounding environment, and general public are not exposed to any airborne threats.

At the Fiji Police Quarters in Nasova, Suva, removal of contaminated material which contains asbestos has also been planned by the relevant authorities.

The OHS said in a statement yesterday that the contaminated material was found in the cement board used on the building’s walls and ceilings, which were installed several decades ago.

The boards currently remain intact and do not pose any immediate risk to the health and safety of other occupants from surrounding police quarters.

OHS is working closely with the Fiji Police Force to ensure the safe removal of these materials in line with the code of practice for the safe removal of asbestos and international best practices.