June 27th, 2007

Staff members at one of the UK's leading supermarket chains have complained about asbestos contamination. The staff members, who work at a branch of Sainsbury's in the UK, have complained of coughing, which they believe has come about as a result of dust that could contain asbestos dust and fibers.

The Sainsbury's store, which is located in Lewisham Shopping Centre in Lewisham, was being renovated, and as a result of this a layer of dust has now covered many of the goods in the supermarket as well as releasing particles into the air. One staff member stated that she was told by one of the contractors working on the refurbishment that there was asbestos present in the building.

A Lewisham council official has stated: "Asbestos removal work takes place from time to time at Lewisham Shopping Centre both within the land-lord's area of the centre and within individual stores. All work is formally notified and examined in accordance with legal requirements. Detailed discussions take place with the asbestos contractors on site to confirm they conduct the works to the required standard."

He also added that health and safety officer would be brought in to ensure that the store and the shopping center in which it is located is safe for customers and staff members.