December 15th, 2006

The offices of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality have been closed until further notice after the discovery of asbestos. The asbestos was discovered while renovations were being carried out. The asbestos was found in flooring materials that were being removed as part of the renovation.

The renovation began following a recent fire at the building, and it is thought that as the asbestos flooring was removed some asbestos fibers may have been released into the air. Asbestos is a known carcinogenic that can result in a range of health problems through exposure, including an asbestos related cancer known as mesothelioma.

It has been announced that the building will now be closed until further notice as a result of the asbestos discovery. This is to ensure that there is no risk to staff or other people entering the building until the asbestos has been cleared up.

The agency has announced that a licensed contractor in asbestos removal has been hired in order to test the air in the building, and to arrange removal and clean up if necessary.