MP raises concerns with NHS Grampian over fears faulty concrete at health facilities could risk safety
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Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has written to NHS Grampian amid fears that faulty concrete at north-east hospitals, health centres and dental practices could risk the safety of patients and staff.
He has raised concerns after it was revealed six health facilities across the constituency could contain a potentially dangerous type of concrete that can collapse without warning.
Turriff Health Centre, Cuminestown Health Centre, Peterhead Health Centre, Ugie Hospital, Fraserburgh Hospital and Fraserburgh Dental Clinic are all at risk of crumbling from reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
The flawed concrete was used to build roofs, walls and floors from the 1960s to the 1990s.
Mr Duguid has written to NHS Grampian chief executive Caroline Hiscox asking what measures are being taken to make the sites safe from potentially collapsing.
NHS Scotland has warned the material is potentially vulnerable to “catastrophic failure without warning”.
The MP said: “The prevalence of this potentially dangerous concrete in health buildings across the north-east is hugely concerning for the safety of patients and staff.
“To have six at risk of potentially collapsing in Banff and Buchan is deeply alarming which is why I’ve written to NHS Grampian to seek clarity on what is being done to tackle the situation.
“Patients and hardworking NHS staff should not be exposed to these unsafe conditions at a time when they are having to contend with other pressures on a daily basis.
“I understand this material has been used in NHS buildings all over Scotland and I hope the Scottish Government will address this issue as a matter of urgency to give patients and staff the peace of mind that these vital facilities in our communities are safe enough to remain open.”
In his letter, Mr Duguid said: “I am writing to you following the reports that more than 250 NHS buildings across Scotland could contain dangerous Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) which I gather is potentially vulnerable to ‘catastrophic failure without warning’.
“This is obviously very concerning to my constituents, and I would like to ask what remedial and mitigation measures have been or will be taken to address potential safety concerns, and what progress has been made on these measures?
“I look forward to hearing from you on this urgent matter.”
