Asbestos removal underway at Kotva department store in Prague

The long-anticipated asbestos removal process at the Kotva department store on Republic Square has officially commenced, marking a crucial step in the landmark building’s modernization efforts. A detailed health and safety inspection conducted by the Prague Hygiene Station (HSHMP) confirmed that all necessary protective measures are in place, ensuring that workers and the public remain safeguarded throughout the operation.

The remediation process, managed by Dilmun System s.r.o., involves the removal of approximately 308 tons of asbestos-containing material, found in various parts of the building, including fire dampers, structural panels, roof layers, pipe joints, and elevator brake pads. Specialized safety zones with vacuum-controlled environments have been set up to prevent the release of harmful asbestos fibers into the air.

Strict Safety Protocols in Place

The controlled zones are sealed and equipped with HEPA filtration units to maintain constant air purification. Workers will adhere to strict decontamination procedures, using designated personnel and material decontamination stations to prevent contamination beyond the worksite. Encapsulation methods, including the application of certified fixation agents, will be used throughout the process to stabilize asbestos fibers before, during, and after removal.

All asbestos waste will be securely sealed in thick-walled PE bags or Big Bags, transported to a sealed hazardous waste container, and safely disposed of at a certified hazardous waste facility. After the remediation work is completed, air quality tests will be conducted by an accredited laboratory to measure the concentration of respirable asbestos fibers. The safety measures will only be lifted once results confirm that asbestos levels are below the legislative limits.

Ongoing Oversight and Inspections

In addition to regular site inspections, an authorized supervisory body has been appointed to monitor compliance with safety regulations. The Prague Hygiene Station will conduct additional unannounced inspections to ensure adherence to health protocols and verify that asbestos removal continues without risks to workers or the public.

The Kotva department store, an architectural icon of Prague’s modernist retail scene, has been undergoing significant renovations to restore its historic significance while updating the infrastructure to modern standards. The asbestos removal process is a critical milestone in this transformation, paving the way for the next phase of redevelopment and modernization.

Photo: Wikimediacommons