Transport for London (TfL) has confirmed the presence of asbestos in two London Underground stations. While the material has been detected in several locations across the network, TfL
assures that there is no risk to passengers or staff.
In response to a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request, TfL revealed that asbestos was found at Pimlico and Stockwell Tube stations. Reports indicate that asbestos is present in the cement of various areas within these stations.
At Stockwell station, asbestos was identified in tunnel cement and cable ducts on platforms 1, 2, and 4, following an inspection in August last year. It was also found in the cable ducts on Platform 3 and is presumed to be present in additional areas, including electrical boxes.
Similarly, an inspection of Pimlico station in May last year confirmed asbestos in the cement of the lobby and both platforms.
Safety measures and asbestos management
Due to the age of the Underground network, asbestos is present in multiple locations, according to TfL. However, the transport authority reassures the public that most Asbestos-Containing Materials (ACMs) are concealed behind station finishes, making them inaccessible to passengers. Where ACMs are found in public areas, they are located in a way that poses no threat to commuters or staff.
A TfL FOI case officer stated that it is rare for the safety status of asbestos in stations to change. In cases where a risk assessment deems necessary, the material is encapsulated, encased, or removed.
To ensure compliance with national regulations, TfL follows strict asbestos management procedures, including:
- Maintaining a register of known and presumed asbestos locations;
- Regular inspections of affected areas;
- Airborne fibre monitoring during maintenance or construction work near asbestos materials.
While asbestos remains present in parts of the London Underground, TfL emphasizes that its current management practices ensure it does not pose a hazard to public safety. Photo by Sunil060902, Wikimedia commons.