Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (3, February 2016) The Cayman Islands Airports Authority (CIAA) can confirm that at 12:50pm today (Wednesday, 3 February) the Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA) was temporarily evacuated after smoke was spotted in the construction area at the interface of the new and existing building. The cause of the smoke is yet to be confirmed by the Cayman Islands Fire Service, but is believed to have resulted from smouldering insulation material during steel works for the new construction project. The contractor’s designated fire watchman promptly stopped the works and two fire extinguishers were used to smother the insulation.

The Cayman Islands Fire Service arrived on the scene shortly after. No damage was reported and the all clear was given at 1:54pm. The construction team’s response was in accordance with the CIAA’s work safety plan and hot works permit which includes having fire extinguishers near the hot works area as well as a designated fire watchman to monitor the works. The CIAA also met its safety requirement to have the airport evacuated within five minutes of any incident. The Airports Authority would like to thank their customers and airport partners for their patience and apologize for any inconvenience caused.