Asbestos found in Selfridges' windows

Selfridges had to seal up and close the display windows in its London store after asbestos was discovered during a survey of the building.

Experts found the hazardous substance at the top of window frames in five out of 26 windows about three weeks ago and ordered its’ removal.

“(The windows) were sealed immediately and the Health and Safety Executive was informed,” Selfridges communications director Christine Watts said.

The asbestos panels were removed last week, while the store was open.

“The removal has been completed and now the next stage is obviously to rebuild the window frames,” said Watts.

“It’s an old building and we always check for asbestos whenever we do a refurbishment.

“On the occasions it is found, it is dealt with absolutely in line with HSE standards.”

The building survey is to be completed by the end of November.

The asbestos panelling found was made from brown asbestos, which was most commonly used in thermal insulation.