Dunn Building closes for emergency asbestos removal

Jan 22, 2010

The Dunn Building in Berkeley County, West Virginia closed to employees and the public at 5:00 pm on December 11 for emergency asbestos removal. The building was scheduled to remain closed until at least the start of business on December 18, one week later.

The Dunn Building houses several county government offices and the Blue Ridge Community and Technical College. The central atrium skylight and the roof are being replaced as part of a $4.3 million renovation project, and asbestos was discovered around the skylight. With the building closed, the asbestos contamination was encapsulated and removed by Boggs Environmental Consultants of Maryland.

Asbestos is a hazardous substance that was commonly used in construction materials for fireproofing and insulation until the 1970s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and other tissue, resulting in serious illnesses like asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. The Dunn Building had to be closed because removing the asbestos caused the fibers to become airborne, and contractors had to follow strict guidelines to ensure the safety of their workers and the public during the removal process.

For the full story, go to The Journal.

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