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The U-Bahnhof Nordstraße in Cologne is undergoing a significant renovation, covering approximately 6,500 square meters. The renovation includes the removal of all ceiling elements, followed by the installation of a new ceiling and floor coverings.
The asbestos removal at the "Nordstraße" stop is being carried out by a certified specialist company, adhering to strict safety measures and regulations. These regulations require that asbestos removal must be performed by licensed and certified contractors who follow occupational safety standards, including the use of required ventilation equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) to prevent fiber release and inhalation.
Prior to the renovation, thorough asbestos surveys must be conducted to identify any asbestos-containing materials. Wetting asbestos debris, HEPA vacuuming, and wet wiping of the area are among the work procedures mandated to remove any residual fibers. Waste asbestos material must be securely contained in sealed, leak-tight packaging and transported to licensed hazardous waste disposal facilities in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
Safety measures and regulations for asbestos removal at public transportation stops also include strict licensing, notification, containment, and disposal protocols that minimize asbestos fiber exposure risks to workers and the public. Notifications and survey reports must be made accessible to relevant stakeholders, including maintenance personnel, contractors, and occupants, before and during asbestos abatement activities.
Inspections by occupational safety authorities ensure compliance with these measures and the availability of proper equipment for asbestos removal works. A "black area" with locks will be installed at the "Nordstraße" stop to prevent asbestos fibers from escaping during the removal process.
The contaminated dust remained undiscovered until the ceiling was removed. Samples will be taken to check if all asbestos fibers have been removed after the thorough cleaning. If asbestos fibers are still detected, the cleaning procedure will be repeated.
The platform at the "Nordstraße" stop will be separated from the distribution level and access area by partitions during renovation work. Rheinbahn lines U78 and U79 will continue passing through the "Nordstraße" stop at reduced speed during the renovation.
The modernization of the U-Bahnhof Nordstraße will focus on improving fire protection measures. The platform at the "Nordstraße" stop will receive a smoke-permeable expanded metal grid ceiling, and non-flammable floor coverings will be laid on the platform and in the distribution levels.
Mobility and Environment Commissioner Jochen Kral stated that ensuring no health risk is a top priority during the renovation. He confirmed that there will be no health risk for passengers and vehicle drivers even with open windows, as recently confirmed by experts.
The U-Bahnhof Nordstraße, completed in 1981, will receive a smoke-permeable expanded metal grid ceiling on the platform level and in parts of the distribution level. The renovation of the U-Bahnhof Nordstraße will also include upgrades to fire protection and renovations to the ceiling and floor coverings.
The renovation work at the U-Bahnhof Nordstraße is expected to improve the safety and comfort of the station for passengers and ensure compliance with modern safety and environmental regulations.
The renovation project at the U-Bahnhof Nordstraße encompasses not only aesthetic improvements, but also includes implementing safe and modern asbestos removal methods, complying with health-and-wellness regulations and guidelines. Post-renovation, the use of smoke-permeable expanded metal grid ceilings and non-flammable floor coverings in the U-Bahnhof Nordstraße will contribute to a safer environment, aligning with environmental-science standards for fire protection and air quality.
