Blaze reveals asbestos in roof of building used by council workers

Published on Monday 29 May 2006 12:06

ASBESTOS has been found in the roof of a council depot used by refuse workers following a serious blaze.

The Russell Road building, which is the base for around 200 binmen, caught fire earlier this month.

Firefighters believe the blaze may have been caused by an electrical fault.

The roof, which is partially constructed from asbestos cement, was damaged and the top floor of the building was sealed off. A full safety investigation has since been carried out.

Workers from the street cleansing department, who were based on this floor, have been relocated, but binmen are continuing to use the ground level.

One worker, who asked not to be named, said many of the staff are unhappy with the situation, which has left them without access to the building's washing and toilet facilities.

But a spokeswoman for the council said there is no safety risk to its employees following the fire.

"The council can confirm that there was a fire at our Russell Road depot on May 16," she said.

"Damage was primarily to the building's roof, which is partially constructed in asbestos cement. This area was immediately cordoned off and underwent a thorough inspection by our health and safety inspectors, who also carried out air tests as a precautionary measure.

"There is no health risk whatsoever to any refuse workers still using the depot. However, as the welfare of our staff is of paramount importance, workers were immediately informed that the affected area was out of bounds.

"Portable toilet facilities have also been provided for staff and additional facilities will be available from next week.

"We are now awaiting a technical survey report, which will determine the future of the building."