Fears as asbestos pipes supply drinking water

Fears as asbestos pipes supply drinking water

31 May 2017

ASBESTOS pipes are supplying drinking water to homes at a Downpatrick housing estate, it has been revealed.

Sinn Fein’s Chris Hazzard said investigations by his party confirmed asbestos pipes — not metal pipes as claimed by Northern Ireland Water — are supplying homes at Thomas Russell Park. Mr Hazzard said the discovery of the information has forced the organisation into what he described as an “embarrassing u-turn.”

Whilst careful to reassure residents they are not in any immediate danger, the Westminster election candidate said despite NI Water previously stating the water mains in the area were made from standard iron, his party uncovered documents that prove asbestos water mains are indeed supplying homes in the estate.

“Although measurement of asbestos fibres in drinking water is technically difficult, research does indicate that water distributed through asbestos cement pipes contains asbestos fibres,” explained Mr Hazzard

“While there is no immediate health concerns, health experts still are very reluctant to categorically state that ingested asbestos is not dangerous.”

Mr Hazzard said he has asked NI Water to look at replacing the existing asbestos water mains in Thomas Russell Park as part of any future capital works programme in the area.

A spokeswoman for NI Water said the organisation is more than willing to meet with Mr Hazzard to discuss his concerns about the pipework at Thomas Russell Park, with NI Water confident that pipes in place can provide a safe supply of drinking water to customers. 

“NI Water prioritises its capital investment in water main replacement and will apply this to Thomas Russell Park,” the spokeswoman continued. “NI Water is confident asbestos cement pipework does not pose a health risk and we can assure customers we are providing them with a safe and reliable water supply. At all times, our number one priority is public health.

“The World Health Organisation has published research results which concludes that there is no convincing evidence which indicates that the use of asbestos cement pipes for the distribution of drinking water supplies represent a hazard to the health of the consumer and they continue to be used throughout the world.”

The spokeswoman said any work undertaken by NI Water staff on asbestos cement pipework is in accordance with legislative requirements and associated health and safety guidance. She said

NI Water has an extensive water quality monitoring programme which ensures water supplies are tested 365 days per year. 

“The programme is in accordance with the Drinking Water Regulations and is monitored by the Northern Ireland Drinking Water Inspectorate. If a customer has concerns about their water quality, they can call Waterline on 03457 440088 to arrange a water quality test. 

“NI Water continues to provide high quality drinking water to the people of Northern Ireland and, with ongoing investment, will continue to do so,” the spokeswoman added.