Health directorate calls for measures to mitigate dust, noise and vibration.
The Environmental Health Section of the Cape Town’s Health Directorate has reviewed the Contractors Environmental Management Plan, including a Specialist Dust, Noise and Vibration Plan, regarding the possible health risks that the implosion of the two Athlone towers on 22 August may hold, and have called for various mitigation measures to be implemented to minimise these risks. Possible risks include noise pollution, as well as large amounts of dust that can pose a risk to especially those who have chronic lung and heart conditions.
Dr. Ivan Bromfield, Executive Director: City Health, said: “The City is taking all necessary precautions to ensure that the demolition of the towers does not have an adverse effect on the residents of surrounding communities and on those watching the historic event. We also want to encourage the public to follow the guidelines we have provided in order to ensure that they observe the demolition of the towers in a safe environment and that those with medical conditions will not be exposed to the possible health risks.”
Since February 2010 when it was decided that the towers must be demolished, many people raised concerns about the presence of asbestos in the towers which could pose a health risk when the towers are imploded. This issue was also a concern for City Health as the presence of asbestos in the towers would lead to the distribution of wind-blown asbestos dust, during and after the implosion. The City therefore asked an accredited inspection authority to determine whether there is asbestos on the site, and is pleased to report that the inspection authority has issued a certificate to confirm that the site is asbestos free. This will therefore not pose a health risk during the demolition of the towers.
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