§ Mr. SpellarTo ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee on what occasions asbestos has been encountered during building and refurbishment on the parliamentary estate during the last year. [40298]
§ Sir Raymond PowellAs with most older buildings, asbestos is regularly encountered during building and refurbishment work on the parliamentary estate. Generally, the Parliamentary Works Directorate is aware of the locations where asbestos will be found, which are recorded in its asbestos register. Where asbestos materials can safely remain in place, they are encapsulated and inspected at regular intervals. Ultimately, the aim is to remove any materials containing asbestos but that cannot all be done at once, nor is it necessary to do so. Maintenance and new works projects include specific allowance for the removal of hazardous materials. In all such projects the opportunity is taken to remove asbestos and materials containing asbestos in the course of the work. The removal of asbestos is undertaken in strict accordance with the guidelines and procedures laid down by the Health and Safety Executive.
§ Mr. Ian McCartneyTo ask the Chairman of the Accommodation and Works Committee (1) if all asbestos has now been removed from the Palace of Westminster; [41092]
(2) what types of asbestos were present in the Palace of Westminster; what were the levels of asbestos found in the air; and when the asbestos was removed; [41094]
(3) what are the current levels of asbestos remaining in the Palace of Westminster. [41093]
§ Sir Raymond PowellAs in most older buildings, there is some asbestos remaining in the Palace of Westminster. A register is kept of the locations on the Parliamentary Estate where asbestos is known to remain—usually because it is inaccessible—and of those places from902W which it has been removed. It is the practice to remove asbestos found when undertaking maintenance and other works services. Ultimately, the aim is to remove any materials containing asbestos but that cannot all be done at once, nor is it necessary to do so. Remaining asbestos is sealed in and inspected at regular intervals.
Removal of asbestos is undertaken in line with the recommendations of the Health and Safety Executive for managing the asbestos hazard and preventing any risks to occupants or workmen. Areas are tested for fibres in the air both during and after the removal of asbestos. All areas have to be issued with an asbestos clear certificate by an independent accredited company before they are reoccupied.