November 18th, 2004

Colorado State University-Pueblo’s Massari Arena had to be closed for two days recently following an asbestos spill. The spill was caused by strong winds combine with the fact that contractors had placed phone line behind bleachers, stated Executive Director of Development and Communications at CSU-Pueblo, Cora Zaletel.

The spill was only a minor one, and following air quality tests, which showed negative results for asbestos presence, the building was re-opened. Zaletel stated that minor asbestos spills such as this were not unheard of in a building of this age and constructions, and went on to confirm that all safety tests had been carried out as required prior to re-opening the building.

Airborne asbestos particles are the known cause of a fatal disease, a cancer known as mesothelioma. This cancer can take decades to develop, so those affected would not even realize until twenty or thirty years – sometimes longer – had passed. Mesothelioma can result in a reduction of lifespan to just several months, and there is yet no cure for this disease.

The asbestos spill at Colorado State University-Pueblo’s Massari Arena came right after wooden bleachers in the building were closed down due to weakness resulting from wear and tear, as well as age.