City Engineering Services Annex contaminated with asbestos, falling apart

In South Texas, a City Engineering Services Annex is literally falling apart. City officials were surprised to learn that engineers were still housed in the annex when they toured the building with a local news crew.  Wiring is exposed, and large cracks show that the walls are separating from the floor and from each other.

Asbestos has been discovered inside the building, though it is believed to be non-friable and not releasing respirable fibers at this time.  But age and disturbances can cause asbestos-containing materials to break down and release fibers.  Building employees were asked to undergo health screenings in case they were exposed to the toxic substance, as asbestos exposure can lead to serious illnesses like mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer.

Because of the numerous safety issues, the annex employees are now being moved to other offices while the city decides what to do with the building.

For the full story, go to KIII TV3 South Texas.