RENOVATION work on a landmark building in the Bathurst was abruptly stopped last week after asbestos was found on the site.
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Safework NSW issued a prohibition notice to the principal contractor, Inland Building and Constructions, and shut down work at the two-storey building on the corner of George and Howick streets after a small amount of asbestos was found upstairs in the air conditioning receptors, hidden in the ceiling of the building.
As a result of the notice, all work was temporarily stopped on site until the contractor could ensure any health work and safety risks were mitigated.
A spokesperson for Safework NSW confirmed on Monday that they were investigating asbestos management at the construction site on the corner of George and Howick streets.
“A prohibition notice was issued to the principal contractor directing them to develop an asbestos management plan, identify all asbestos containing material at the site and engage a licensed asbestos removalist,” they said.
The spokesperson said any workers potentially exposed to asbestos had been offered health screening by the employer.
Since the asbestos was found last week, the spokesperson said the prohibition notice has been complied with and SafeWork NSW’s notice has been lifted.
“SafeWork NSW’s investigation remains ongoing,” the spokesperson said.
Inland Building director Stuart Pennells said there had been no danger to any workers or the community.
“No-one had been working with the material and once it was identified it was rendered safe as per the guidelines,” he said.
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“It is now awaiting removal by a licensed contractor on Wednesday.”
A $2.7 million, three-phase facelift of the building began 12 months ago.
It includes the construction of three new shops, fitting modern panels to the outside of the building and the final and current phase, which includes the refurbishment of the third floor.
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