The Ministry of Employment confirms that the building materials found containing asbestos in the Suva Civic Centre have been completely sealed off since last Thursday and continue to present no threat to the general public.
The Ministry says that the air tests were conducted in areas around the Suva Civic Centre by Pacifica Environmental Services and has confirmed that there is no threat of airborne contamination.
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.
It says air sampling will be conducted throughout the removal process to ensure there remains no threat to the general public.
The Ministry adds that the building materials have been properly prepared for removal and the Ministry 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.
It stressed that the Ministry will not proceed with the removal of the building materials until an action plan is in place that meets international standards and absolutely guarantees public safety.
