The Architect of the Capital (AOC), which is the organization responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the United States Capitol Complex, has announced that some of the Capital Power Plant tunnel workers who've been working in asbestos-contaminated tunnels below the Capital Complex, and are now showing signs of asbestos-related disease, will be reassigned to other duties.

The announcement comes in the wake of increasing congressional pressure on the AOC to transition this tunnel crew into less hazardous worksites. The AOC was made aware of the asbestos problems in some tunnels in 2000, but did not provide the requisite protective gear for the workers until 2006. Many of these workers are now exhibiting regular symptoms of asbestos-related diseases and members of Congress have become increasingly vocal in their criticism of how the AOC has handled the situation.

Labels: asbestos