Asbestos-containing material identified at old CWM nursing quarters doesn't pose threat to public

Asbestos-containing material has been identified at the old CWM nursing quarters but does not pose any threat to the health and safety of the general public. 

This has been confirmed by the National Occupational Health and Safety Service of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations.

Minister for Employment Jone Usamate said the asbestos identified in the old quarters is intact and well-contained within the building premises.

He says independent air monitoring results from the Consultant revealed that there were no airborne asbestos fibres found around the environment and within the surrounding vicinity.

According the World Health Organisation, inhaled asbestos fibers aggravate lung tissues, which cause them to scar.

The symptoms of asbestosis include shortness of breath.

Works that was conducted at the site is currently at a standstill as the Ministry has issued a prohibition notice to the Contractor.

Usamate says continuous independent air monitoring will be conducted by the National OHS Service to ensure that there is no air borne fibers present in the environment and within the surrounding vicinity.

The old CWM nursing quarters was built in the early 1970’s and the use of asbestos is common in most buildings constructed or renovated at that time.