The asbestos fibers were discovered during a soil survey that is conducted routinely during construction projects. This discovery is all the more remarkable when you consider that the asbestos removal was wound up in March and the building had been declared free of asbestos after various inspections.

The Executive Board (CvB) is launching an investigation into the amount and the spread of the asbestos. In addition, it is being examined what health risks have been incurred by employees of construction companies and of TU/e. “Our impression is that most of these people have been in the crawl space for short periods”, says CvB spokesman Peter van Dam. He states that all employees have been notified and all bodies involved have also been informed.

The CvB is also going to find out who exactly is responsible for the course of affairs and will see if there are any legal consequences.

For the time being the W-hall will be closed and all construction activities have been ceased. The start of the renovation is expected to be postponed for at least two to three months. And the festive kick-off by the CvB on 30th June has been cancelled. “It stands to reason that we regret the postponement of the kick-off ceremony, but we would not want to run any risk – however small – with the health of the visitors”, university secretary Harry Roumen explains.

The renovation of the W-hall is the first project within the framework of Campus 2020. New construction and renovation are intended to give the university campus a new look. (FvO)/.