Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Wright - On Friday, 8th October, 2010 I wrote on behalf of the Commissioner of Police to inform the Service about the rapid response mounted by Bermuda Water Consultants (BWC) that day to independently test for mould at both the Somerset and Hamilton Police stations. This action was undertaken following concerns raised in the media by two overseas consultants who were hired by a local law firm to conduct testing as part of a civil suit against Government. 

A formal report is currently being prepared. However, I have provided below a brief synopsis received from BWC Tuesday afternoon. This disclosure is made in keeping with the Commissioner’s pledge to ensure everyone is kept informed regarding matters concerning the health and safety of personnel working at those stations as well as visiting members of the public.

BWC reports:

Hamilton Police Station

Based on the results BWC is satisfied that air quality, in general and in particular with respect to mould, is acceptable.  There is obvious water damage and active growth on some surfaces within the building; however, there are no innate concerns for the safety and health of staff members working in the building. 

Somerset Police Station

Based on the results of the visual assessment together with the surface and air test results BWC is of the opinion that the conditions at Somerset are good.  

Once the formal report is received we will share the findings with the Bermuda Police Association Executive and ensure that the Health and Safety Committees perform any recommendations from BWC without delay. In the meantime, it is certainly relieving to know that the conditions at the stations are safe for our staff to continue working without any further anxiety that may have been caused this weekend.