No risk of airborne asbetos fibre from corroding roof - MCCAA

The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority said an examination it conducted on an asbestos roof in a building adjacent to its offices - currently the subject of internal disquiet among employees - had recorded airborne asbestos fibre levels that were less than the limits imposed at law.

The MCCAA is insisting that its offices are not in danger from a nearby corroding asbestos roof and that its terrace and window areas adjacent to the building are not at risk of asbestos fibres.

The risk analysis report was presented to the representation of the General Workers Union and members of the health and safety committee. "We are taking the necessary steps to safeguard our employees' health," the MCCAA said in a statement.

Labour MP Helena Dalli yesterday said claims by small business minister Jason Azzopardi that the consumer authority's offices were free of asbestos contamination, had been contradicted by statements by a consultant during a meeting for employees at the Mata Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) on 20 September.

Dalli claiming that when pressed on to further elaborate on the possible dangers of the asbestos by MCCAA employees, a government consultant on the matter was "categorical in accepting that one has cause to worry for the dangers this corroding roof could have for people's health."

Dalli said the same experts said the Occupational Health and Safety Authority does not have the legal powers to oblige the owner of the adjacent building to remove the dangerous roof.