Ashghal starts construction of Environmental and Radiological Laboratories

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has started construction of the Environmental and Radiological Laboratories. This is, Ashghal said in an X post, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC).The project aims to improve Qatar's capacity for environmental and radiological monitoring and analysis in accordance with international standards through sustainable and environmentally focused projects in addition to promoting public health, environmental protection and the realisation of the Qatar National Vision 2030.The project spans over a building area of about 44,880 sq m. The works include construction of a multi-story main building consisting of a ground floor, first floor, a basement and an external building devoted to radioactive waste management. Eng. Hashem Mohamed Ali, Project Manager, said the lab is one of Ashghal’s key environmental initiatives, reflecting the strong collaboration with MoECC and Qatar’s commitment to advancing radiological security and global leadership in this field."The project is progressing on schedule using state-of-the-art technologies aligned with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards to ensure accurate and reliable radiological measurement while providing advanced calibration services for medical, industrial and environmental sectors,” he said.He added that the project adheres to the highest sustainability standards under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS) system targeting a 3-star rating for energy efficiency, environmental protection and quality of air, water and materials.In line with Qatar’s support for local products, approximately 70% of the materials used in the project will be locally sourced. The materials include steel, electrical and mechanical components, glass and aluminum. Eng. Bader Nasser al-Saadi, Coordinator of the Secondary Calibration Laboratories Project for the International Atomic Energy Agency and Qatar and Head of the Radiometric Laboratories Section at the Radiation Control Department of the MoECC, said the laboratory will be built in accordance with the highest international specifications and standards followed in calibration laboratories. IAEA will supply calibration devices and equipment ensuring the quality and accuracy of radiological measurements at the national level. Eng. Muneera al-Ansari, Project Engineer, said the facility includes three main sections with radiological labs and supporting labs along with administrative offices. There will be additional buildings such as a radioactive waste storage unit, security control centre and smart surveillance systems. She noted the use of advanced digital technology, including Building Information Modelling (BIM) to ensure smooth execution and high precision.With broad hallways, designated facilities, conspicuous signs, ramps in place of stairs, and parking near main entrances, the project has been designed to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities. The building's engineering and architectural design complies with the strictest safety and quality requirements, demonstrating Ashghal's dedication to providing environmentally responsible and sustainable amenities that help create a safer and healthier community in the future.The project follows top quality, safety and sustainability standards and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.