Olympic Park fire findings published

Investigations into the fire, which took place in a disused warehouse, show it was caused by accidental ignition of insulation material within the walled cavity of the building during demolition work.

Monitoring found there was no asbestos in the air around the building during or after the fire.

The ‘hot working’ process taking place when the accident happened has been temporarily suspended during demolition of similar buildings while a review of procedures is carried out.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said: ‘These findings confirm initial indications both that the fire was caused by accident while the warehouse was prepared for demolition and that public health was not put at risk.

‘It also recognises that the site staff, emergency services and other bodies worked quickly and effectively together in their response to the fire. However this was a serious incident and we are instigating a thorough review of our stringent health and safety procedures as a result.’

Read the full media release