Removal of asbestos from navy ships begins

A specialist company has started removing asbestos from two Naval Service ships which have been locked down for a number of weeks due to the discovery of the potentially lethal substance onboard.

A Naval Service spokeswoman confirmed to the Irish Examiner that “a deep environmental clean” is now underway on the LÉ Ciara and LÉ Orla.

The spokeswoman said the clean-up is expected to take a number of weeks and on its completion “an independent asbestos consultancy company will carry out air monitoring and analysis” to ensure the vessels are safe to be reoccupied by navy personnel in accordance with Health and Safety Authority guidelines.

Both ships are currently tied up at the navy’s headquarters on Haulbowline island in Cork harbour.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the harbour at Cork Dockyard, the LÉ Eithne is also being examined for asbestos amid concern the substance is in its forward pump room.

“An initial examination of the ship drawings indicated an area of potential concern and will be examined as a precaution and dealt with in accordance with HSA guidelines if deemed necessary,” the spokeswoman said.

It is estimated that around 150 Naval Service personnel and civilians workers employed by the Department of Defence may have come into contact with asbestos on the ships and at workshops on Haulbowline, where it was being cut up.

Asbestos becomes dangerous if it is ground down and people inhale its dust and it can take up to 40 years before the symptoms begin to show.

The spokeswoman said all Naval Service personnel had now been medically screened for possible health risks.

Screening is also underway for civilian workers.

Asbestos has also been recently removed from a gasket in an engine on the LÉ Aoife and the Naval Service says plans are underway to carry out a fleet-wide sweep for the substance, which will include the LÉ Aisling.

The Naval Service had thought all its ships were asbestos-free following a report which was compiled by consultants 14 years ago.

The Naval Service said it is currently engaged with personnel to further inform them on asbestos issues and address their concerns in a proactive manner.

“At all times the Naval Service has communicated with their personnel on every concern raised. Subject matter experts, engineering, medical and health and safety [professionals], have been engaged and provided expert advice. All such advice, direction and guidance has been fully followed,” the Naval Service said.