17 May 2018

Work is well under way to test air quality on all levels of the Reserve Bank’s Wellington premises, after a trace of asbestos was found on level 1 during a routine inspection on Wednesday.

The asbestos on level 1 is being remediated. Three levels have been inspected, tested and found to be clear. Inspection and testing continues. Essential operations continue to operate from our premises in Auckland.

Because of the age of the building, asbestos must be presumed to be present. This is why we routinely inspect and conduct air monitoring across the building.

“As a responsible employer and landlord, we decided to take the precaution of closing the building to inspect all levels and confirm that there is no risk to human health,” Head of Communications Mike Hannah said.

A plan is being developed for returning everyone to the premises after other levels have been inspected, tested and the safety of staff and tenants is assured

“The safety of our people and tenants is our number one priority,” he said.

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