TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Asbestos, which can cause several cancers and diseases, was found inside the Fletcher Building in Tallahassee.
According to the Department of Management Services (DMS), as part of a flooring installation project at the Fletcher Building on East Gaines Street, a vendor working on behalf of DMS identified asbestos materials.
DMS said the vendor immediately stopped work , re-covered the old flooring with carpet, and contacted DMS to investigate. DMS stated employees were not exposed to any asbestos and were not in any danger.
According to DMS, they contracted with a specialized environmental safety company that confirmed the presence of asbestos. They also requested bids from qualified abatement vendors to safely remove all materials.
A vendor has been selected and work will begin on Friday and take place after hours to minimize potential exposure to employees.
DMS said they scheduled meetings to explain to employees the process and answer any questions they may have had.
DMS said they are committed to ensuring a safe, clean, and accessible working environment for all tenants in buildings they manage.