Asbestos Found in Kampenhout Sports Hall After 20 Years, Remediation Begins Next Week

Remediation work to remove asbestos-containing plates will commence next Monday in the dance hall and cafeteria of the Kampenhout sports hall. This development is particularly noteworthy as the facility was declared asbestos-free in 2007, almost two decades prior.

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But a new employee, who has been working for the municipality since the end of last year, suspected that something was wrong.

The discovery stemmed from a new municipal employee, who joined the local government late last year. This employee harbored suspicions that the previous asbestos-free declaration might have been inaccurate. Acting on these concerns, the municipality conducted a new asbestos survey last month.

Results from the recent survey confirmed the presence of asbestos in the materials. Despite the discovery occurring just before the construction holiday, the municipality managed to contact contractors for quotes during this period. This swift action allows the remediation work to begin promptly on August 31.

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From these new samples, it immediately became clear that asbestos was still present. That was just before the start of the construction holiday. But we still managed to contact a number of contractors during that holiday to get quotes.

Municipal official Stefan Imbrechts stated that addressing the issue is a priority, as the dance hall is used by various local associations. He emphasized the need for immediate action. The municipality assured that there was no acute risk, as the panels containing asbestos were still intact. During the remediation, the affected areas will be completely sealed off to prevent the escape of asbestos fibers. The work is expected to be completed by September 14, with the municipality exploring temporary venues for activities.

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It is our duty, because the dance hall is used by various associations in Kampenhout. We have to tackle it, so we might as well do it right away.