30 May 2007
Labour inspectors have today given Harbour Contractors a go-ahead to resume
work at Durban's North Pier Harbour, following a prohibition of all operations
pending investigations into a fire that gutted the north side of the old tunnel
at the site last week. The decision to revoke the prohibition notice was
prompted after an on-site physical inspection was conducted and it was
established that:
* the temporary electrical installation was underway and the pumping of
water out off the tunnel was in progress
* extractor fans were installed to provide fresh air circulation
* the risk assessment was conducted by the contractor
* a number of fire extinguishers have been placed throughout the tunnel
* the internal incident investigation was completed
* the report from the structural engineer recommended that it is safe to work
inside the tunnel
* an emergency tunnel evacuation and assembly procedure was established.
No injuries were reported but the investigation into the cause of the fire
still continues. The department is awaiting a report from the Fire Department
as well as a Temporary Certificate of Compliance for the temporary electrical
installation which is now nearing completion. A planned follow-up inspection is
scheduled for 12 June.
Enquiries:
Zolisa Sigabi
Cell: 082 906 3878
E-mail: Zolisa.sigabi@labour.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Labour
30 May 2007
Source: Department of Labour (http://www.labour.gov.za)
