Laundry staff at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary are being supported following an “isolated asbestos incident”.

NHS Grampian said a small number of staff and contractors were in the unit when a beam was accidentally disturbed during the installation of a new hydraulic press earlier this month.

Caroline Hiscox, the health board’s chief executive, said it could be two weeks before laundry is back to being fully operational.

In a video message, Ms Hiscox praised the workers’ flexibility and commitment in keeping the laundry service running as best as it can, “despite the challenges faced”.

She acknowledged there may be a “few more hurdles” before the service gets “back to normal”.

The health board said contingency plans are in place to minimise disruption and no procedures have been cancelled as a result of the incident.

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A spokesperson from NHS Grampian said: “As part of the installation of a new hydraulic press in the laundry, a beam was inadvertently disturbed which produced an isolated asbestos incident.

“A small number of staff and contractors were in the unit at the time and have been identified and supported.

“Contingency plans are currently in place with support from other boards. No procedures have been cancelled as a result.

“Our laundry team has worked tirelessly to keep the service running smoothly until everything is fully safe and operational in the next few weeks.”

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