CPD seals off training area, investigates report on asbestos contamination

A statement issued by the Civil Protection Department has confirmed that large drain pipes used for training excercises by its personnel are made of asbestos, and that it had briefed its officers on the need for protective clothing when their men would pass through them during training drills.

Sunday newspaper Illum revealed that laboratory tests carried out on protective clothing used by Civil Protection personnel had revealed traces of asbestos on the clothing they allegedly used when participating in training excercises.

When speaking to Illum, a number of Civil Protection officers expressed concern for their health, given their exposure to asbestos.

In its statement, the Department of Civil Protection said that it has an obligation to train its personnel, while taking precautions to ensure the safety of its men. The department admitted that the drain pipes are made of asbestos, but are coated by concrete to protect them from deteriorating when exposed to climatic elements.

According to the department, the pipes are regularly inspected, and the last inspection before the last training session was made on October 29.

But the statement also reveals an important detail on the training excercise during which Civil Protection personnel were made to pass through asbestos drain pipes. "Team officers were summoned to the 'Situation Room' and - while being handed copies of a risk assessment on the area which referred to the presence of asbestos - were briefed on the risks, and the need to ensure that all personnel involved in the drill be wearing protective clothing and breathing masks," the statement said.

The statement however challenges the newspaper report that quotes a forensic laboratory test that established traces of asbestos on the clothing worn by Civil Protection personnel during that drill.

The department questioned the findings and also whether the forensic tests were carried out according to guide lines established by the Laws of Malta.

While reiterating its commitment towards the safety of its personnel, the Department of Civil Protection said that it was shutting down the training area, and has ordered an investigation into the alleged asbestos contamination, while it will be also conducting its own forensic tests on the clothing used by the officers.