Clean-up operation at Waterford fire site progressing well
Gravity Construction working on road cleaning measure close to the former Jute Factory fire location.
The clean-up operation at the site of the recent massive blaze in Waterford City s progressing well.
The fire broke out at the old Jute Factory building at Tycor Business Park and a spokesperson for Waterford City & County Council said the clean-up operations are progressing.
On Friday, May 15, the spokesperson said: "Extensive clean-up operations in the vicinity of Tycor continue today and are anticipated to continue for at least another week, following a large fire at the Old Jute Factory site on Saturday, May 9th."
The clean-up works are methodically carried out by trained asbestos personnel using controlled methods.
"Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) identified in the area have been removed from all surrounding roads and footpaths, and work continues on the external areas of private houses and gardens," said the spokesperson.
For operational safety, Tycor Avenue, Griffith Place and Ard na Greine will remain closed to the public during the times the contractors are on site but will re-open in the evenings.
Background levels of asbestos commonly exist in the air as it was widely used in building materials up to 2004, after which the importation and sale of all asbestos was banned in Ireland.
"However daily air monitoring at the site consistently indicates that no elevated levels of asbestos fibres are present and are below the limit of detection," said the spokesperson.
HSE public safety advice remains in place for those within the immediate vicinity: Do not touch / remove any debris, ash or soot particles - if necessary, dampen down dust particles with a light dousing of water. It is important not to disturb or aerosolise particles; Do not use a power hose; Do not brush debris; Do not use a vacuum; Do not cut / mow grass; Do not bring debris, dust, ash, or suspected ACMs into your home on footwear or clothing; Remove and clean footwear before entering the house, where possible; Wash hands thoroughly after any outdoor activities. If small amounts of dust or debris have entered your home, avoid vacuuming or vigorous cleaning, as this may disturb particles and cause them to become airborne; Clean surfaces gently using gloves and disposable damp cloths or wet wipes only; Do not use dry cloths, brushes or household dusters; Used cloths and wipes should be placed in a sealed bag immediately after use. Sealed bags should be placed outside for collection and disposal by the Council’s specialist contractor.
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"Waterford City and County Council continues to work closely with the building owners and relevant specialists to ensure the site is fully remediated and managed appropriately and would like to thank members of the public for their patience and cooperation while these works are being carried out," said the spokesperson.
If members of the public have any concerns, they are asked to contact Waterford City and County Council Customer Services Desks at 0818 10 20 20.
