Safety a priority as roof replacement works begin at the Ainslie Shops


Released 08/05/2018

Work will commence this week on the replacement of roof tiles and other roof upgrades at the Ainslie Shops to support safety and amenity, while also reflecting heritage considerations.

This work was foreshadowed last year when loose fill asbestos insulation was removed from the roof space and upstairs area at Shop 1 at the popular local shopping complex. The new works will include an environmental clean of the roof spaces above Shops 3 and 5 at the same time as the roof is replaced.

ACT Work Safety Commissioner Greg Jones said these works will manage any remaining asbestos fibres which may be present in the roof cavity above these shops and will support medium term management of the complex. In the longer term, full remediation (demolition) of the premises will be required.

“These roof replacement works have been foreshadowed by the building owners for some time,” Mr Jones said.

“As a commercial premise, responsibility for these works and the safety of the building rests with the building owner, however WorkSafe ACT will continue its on-going monitoring role as well as having an active presence to ensure these works are undertaken safely.

“As was the case with the previous works undertaken in 2017, all necessary safety measures will be in place and the building owners are working to minimise disruption where possible for tenants, customers and the broader community.”

Mr Jones said that he understood the owners had sourced tiles for the roof work which met heritage considerations.

“In addition, the owners have advised that other roof upgrades will occur to electrical cabling, sarking, roof batons and replacement of guttering and downpipes,” he said.

“Licensed asbestos assessors and removalists will be undertaking works based on a comprehensive plan forwarded to WorkSafe ACT. The upper level shops in the north building will need to close while the roof replacement works take place. A small number of car parking spaces will also not be available for the duration of the works. Trade will be able to safely continue for the rest of the shops.”

Mr Jones said the work was expected to take about four weeks, weather permitting.

“WorkSafe ACT has supported the building owners in their communication with tenants and neighbouring residents around the works. Inspectors will regularly check the safety of works over the course of the upgrade,” Mr Jones said.

“The public can have confidence that the works will be undertaken safely while minimising the impact on the community.” Mr Jones concluded.

- Statement ends -

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