The Nicosia District Local Government Organisation (EOA) and the Department of Labour Inspection have ordered the immediate halt of debris removal work at a demolition site in Agios Andreas, after remnants of asbestos sheets were found on site.
According to a statement from the Nicosia EOA, the organisation received a series of complaints from local residents on Saturday 25 July concerning demolition work at a house, during which, it was alleged, the required measures for the safe removal of asbestos sheets had not been taken.
Officers from the EOA's Licensing Directorate carried out an on-site inspection immediately, finding that the terms of the demolition permit, covering both the written notification of nearby residents and waste management, had not been observed, in line with waste legislation, particularly the provisions concerning asbestos removal.
The EOA informed the Department of Labour Inspection, the authority responsible for this matter, and its officers also contacted the contractor responsible, who complied with the authorities' initial instructions.
During a further inspection carried out on Monday 27 July, in coordination with the Department of Labour Inspection, remnants of asbestos sheets were found to still be present at the site. As a result, the contractor was instructed to immediately halt debris removal and to draw up an action plan for their safe removal, with the aim of safeguarding public health.
The Department of Labour Inspection also gave instructions for the debris to be dampened down and for measurements to be taken of asbestos particle levels in the atmosphere.
The Nicosia EOA said it remains in continuous coordination with the Department of Labour Inspection, guided by the protection of public health, the safety of citizens and the strict application of the law, noting that the case also includes the process of imposing an administrative fine.
Source: CNA
