Basseterre, St. Kitts. October 18.- The Education Media Unit (EMU) and the St. Kitts and Nevis Education Learning Fund (SELF), both departments within the Ministry of Education, are in the process of moving from their current offices in the building formerly known as the Physical Planning Building, or as many senior folks know it, the Old Scotch Building, on Church Street, Basseterre.
Their relocation is due in part to the numerous complaints about workers’ health and safety. As per information received, the new offices are going to be housed on the third floor of the Cable Building, located in Basseterre.
According to WINN FM, well-placed sources have informed them that a number of persons have refused to work in the building and several employees are still “working from home.” Their actions stem from medical issues and conditions that have apparently been tied to the building, which has a longstanding mold issue. Medical issues include migraines, rashes on employees’ skin and other skin related afflictions.
The news article by WINNFM also referenced that “it has also been alleged that Dr. Leroy Richardson has written to the Ministry of Education, on behalf of staff, with relation to medical issues.”
Additionally, the story posted by WINNFM indicated that they obtained a copy of the building survey report on the Physical Planning Building, which was prepared by George Gilbert, Public Works Department Engineer, on February 9, 2004.
The third page of that report states, “The structure, as it stands, encounters a number of problems, which include mechanical, electrical and functional. This report seeks to highlight the critical issues that bombard the safety of the occupants and the structure.”
The report concludes with, “The poor condition of the columns, walls and reinforcements which are considered to be some of the most critical elements of the building indicate that the building has failed structurally. The building, as it stands, is unsafe and could only deteriorate further. The structure is not fit for its purpose and a duty of care is owed to the occupants and the general public. Hence, it is strongly recommended that immediate action be taken to relocate the occupants and strategic demolition be undertaken, in order to save lives and properties.”
The building was purchased by the government of St. Kitts and Nevis in 1971 and there have been allegations of it being condemned since 1982.
Story first Published By WINNFM
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