The test samples of a New Lynn Childcare centre that had caught fire recently came back with negative test results for asbestos. There were three samples that had been collected from the centre at three different locations and all of them did not have any traces of asbestos.

The health protection officers on the inspection of the site following the fire had found asbestos fibers at the centre. Fearing a potential threat to the children’s health they had collected swab samples from three different locations for testing any traces of asbestos.

However, following the testing of the samples it was found that all the swab samples came back as negative. The samples were collected from the New Lynn bus station, Krisley Court apartments that neighbor the centre and the community centre.

Dr. Denise Barnfather, the Medical Officer stated that it was great to know that no other area was affected by the fire. The Health department has further warned the residents of the area to use a damp cloth and gloves while cleaning up the affected area and removing the smoke residues.

The authorities have further requested the people of the affected area to double seal the burnt material with plastic bags before disposing them of to another place.