The material was found in fire resistant coating on a pillar supporting the roof of the building, as reported by Kyodo News.

It had been discovered in 2017, but it was decided that no immediate measures were necessary at the time based on the material's location and condition.

Following renovation works on the building the Government have since reviewed the assessment and announced asbestos containment measures.

They revealed that the area is not sealed off from its surroundings and the structure of the building allows for air within the section in question to circulate over the spectator seats.

Asbestos, a term used to refer to six naturally occurring silicate minerals, is considered a health threat due to its links with cancer and other diseases. 

Designed by the Environment Design Institute in 1993, the Center lacks sufficient seating capacity to stage swimming during Tokyo 2020 and so was overlooked, with a new Olympic Aquatics Centre being built nearby.

Renovations to water polo venue began in October 2018, with organisers expanding the wheelchair-accessible seating area and making other improvements, such as installing handrails along stairways.

It was reported by Kyodo News in February that it is likely the venue will become a public ice rink after Tokyo 2020, with the building also set to be capable of hosting ice hockey and curling.