Asbestos claim to delay MCA reopening?

The opening of the new extension at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) could be delayed following claims that asbestos is present on the site.

Asbestos fibres have been found in the MCA's original 1952 sandstone building leading to a stand-off between unions and the builders, Watpac, over safety.

Workers were due to resume renovations next Wednesday but the union wants Watpac to do a complete report of the building, including sampling and testing material, before workers are allowed back on the site.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported a Watpac statement saying that union claims that up to 400 workers had been exposed to asbestos at the museum were "incorrect and irresponsible."

It said it had been made aware of a small amount of material in the original building and plans were developed in consultation with certified, independent specialists to ensure all work was delivered in accordance with industry standards.

In an interview on ABC Radio, Watpac's NSW Manager, Ric Wang, said the company was given incorrect information about asbestos in the museum from the building's owner, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, saying "the asbestos report issued to us indicated one area of asbestos on the job and that area was decontaminated on day one."

The Museum has issued a statement reassuring visitors that the MCA Galleries have been certified as safe by an industrial hygienist.

The statement reads "(the Galleries) pose no risk to visitors of the Museum's summer exhibition. The MCA has a clearance certificate for its own offices and the Galleries open to the public. These spaces and the rooftop venues continue to operate as usual."

The MCA's new galleries are scheduled for an official opening in March.

For more information go to www.mca.com.au

13th June 2011 - SYDNEY’S MCA TO REOPEN IN MARCH 2012