Asbestos-containing material has been found in a satellite building of the Department of Veterans Affairs medical complex in Denver, agency officials said Thursday.
The problem was first identified July 11, when an inspection by the facility’s occupational safety and health program found potential asbestos in a fireproofing spray. Follow-up testing by an industrial hygienist confirmed the presence of asbestos in a stairwell and overhead spaces.
Airborne asbestos fibers are a health hazard.
Carolyn Adams, the acting medical center director, said the inspection staff is continuing to survey hospital locations for the presence of asbestos-containing material.
The VA is informing employees about the asbestos and placing labels in some work areas.
The Denver hospital was built in 1950 and is planned to be replaced by a new VA hospital in Aurora.
David Olinger: 303-954-1498, dolinger@denverpost.com or
