First Clear Test Result For ANZ House

ANZ

Thursday 18 January

No legionella bacteria have been detected in the first test ANZ has received back on ANZ House. This follows the discovery of low levels of legionella bacteria in the building's water-cooling tower and the decision to temporarily close the building on Tuesday as a precaution while more tests were completed.

The test was conducted on the air conditioning outlet grills. The negative result indicated no legionella bacteria were detected. Human Resources General Manager David Laragy says the test results came back as expected.

"These results increase our confidence that legionella bacteria did not enter the ANZ House work environment.

"Additional test results on the water cooling tower will be available next Wednesday, 24 January."

Mr Laragy said despite low levels of legionella commonly appearing in building cooling towers, ANZ would wait to get a further negative result before reoccupying the building. He said this precaution had been made in the best interests of staff and customers.

Actions taken by the Bank since the discovery of the bacteria meant it was highly likely the cooling tower bacteria had been eliminated.

Mr Laragy says the Bank had worked hard to support staff during the relocation. Staff have been relocated to other premises and can be reached by normal phone contact. Customers needing branch service can use the nearby branch located at 126 Queen Street.

The Bank would make a decision on reopening the building once the next test results had been received on Wednesday.

ENDS

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