Mesothelioma and Asbestos

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, as well as large cracks show that the walls are separating from the floor as well as from each other.

Asbestos has been discovered inside the building, though it is believed to be non-friable as well as not releasing respirable fibers at this time.  But age as well as disturbances can cause asbestos-containing materials to break down as well as 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 humorless illnesses similar 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 filled story, go to KIII TV3 South Texas.