To ask the Scottish Executive what steps are being taken to protect staff and students at the University of Glasgow Dental School while asbestos is being removed from the building.

I have been assured that the removal of asbestos from the facility is being carried out in accordance with health and safety legislation in particular the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006.

If asbestos is present and to be removed the area is isolated and sealed off and the removal works carried out in accordance with the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 by a licensed, specialist contractor. In addition to these regulations, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde carry out perimeter air monitoring to the surrounding areas adjacent to the scope works to ensure the integrity of the sealed area and providing advance warning of any breaches. The area remains isolated until an Air Clearance Certificate and a Certificate of Re-occupation are issued by an independent analyst confirming that the asbestos has been successfully removed and the area free from contamination. Only then can the area be put back into use.

Ken Macintosh (Eastwood) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive whether ministers are confident that all necessary precautions are being taken at the University of Glasgow Dental School to protect those who continue to use the premises while asbestos is being removed from the building.

Scottish Government Health Directorates property management policy requires all NHSScotland bodies to comply with all requirements laid down by statutes bearing upon the health, safety and welfare of staff, patients and visitors in relation to and in respect of the management of the property which they own or occupy.

The removal of asbestos from existing buildings is subject to health and safety regulations, in particular the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have confirmed that the removal of asbestos from the facility is being carried out in accordance with these regulations. I am therefore confident that all necessary precautions are being taken to protect staff, students, patients and all visitors to the facility whilst this work is carried out.

Ken Macintosh (Eastwood) (Lab): To ask the Scottish Executive whether health and safety guidance on the dangers and management of asbestos in the workplace are being observed at the University of Glasgow Dental School while asbestos is being removed from the building.

The removal of asbestos is subject to the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 and I can confirm that in compliance with these regulations NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has an asbestos register in place for the dental hospital and school that, based on surveys carried by specialist consultants, identifies the existence of asbestos within the building.

If contract works are being carried out on the premises the register is consulted to determine whether asbestos is present in that area. If so present and the asbestos requires encapsulation or removal then the Health and Safety Executive is notified and the appropriate works carried out by a licensed, specialist contractor. The register is then updated to reflect the works carried out.