DHB Closes Building To Staff - Repairs Needed

Late yesterday the DHB was advised by its external structural engineers that as a result of their invasive assessment inspection (which involved removing sections of ceiling panels) the building occupied by Maintenance and Clinical Engineering at 45 St Asaph Street requires remedial work to ensure it remains safe for occupation.

While temporary repairs are undertaken, and to ensure repairs can be completed as quickly as possible the building will be closed for normal use and access restricted - as of today.

Chief executive David Meates said at this stage it appears that temporary strengthening of walls will be required before it is safe to reoccupy. It is possible that these repairs may be completed within seven to ten days.

"As a result of this closure staff and the public will not be able to access the building in the normal way. Engineering advice is that supervised access is likely to be permitted to the lower floors for essential purposes. The entrance/roadway to stores and laboratories will also be closed off and access to the loading docks will only be available via the roadway between the stores and sterile services buildings.

"This action is being taken for the safety of staff and the public. As we have previously stated, where we have concerns or become aware of issues regarding any of our buildings we will not compromise the safety of our employees or the public," David Meates said.

Staff were met this morning before they could enter the building. Alternative accommodation is currently being arranged for around 50 displaced maintenance and clinical engineering staff.

Following the 22 February earthquake all CDHB buildings were checked by independent structural engineers to ensure that all facilities are safe to occupy. Further inspections are occurring and we will continue to do so as necessary.

ENDS

© Scoop Media