The asbestos ceiling adjacent to the Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) building will be removed next week while employees will be on leave, taking training outside the building or on tele-working.

Speaking at a press conference on a different subject, held at the MCCAA building, chairman Marcel Pizzuto said all precautions are being taken and the offices will be well inspected during works and once these are completed, before employees re-enter the building.

It was explained that a Mizzi Estates contractor has drawn up a protocol of works and this was approved by the Occupational Health and Safety Authority (OHSA). Buildings adjacent to that of the MCCAA where the air quality may be affected were also considered.

Works are planned to take one week during which regular air testing will take place and OHSA officers will be on site. The ceiling is to be sprayed before it is dismantled and placed in a container for immediate shipping.

While works are ongoing, experts must assess the situation before giving the go-ahead for works to continue the next day. This weekend, all offices will be sealed and once works are completed, air testing will take place.

An environmental clean-up will also be carried out and all risks are to be eliminated before employees re-enter the building.