Mesothelioma and Asbestos News

Ten workers who service the utility tunnels under the United States Capitol say their complaints about work conditions are being ignored and say they’re being retaliated against by the Architect of the Capitol for speaking out publicly.

The workers in the Tunnel Shop filed complaints today with the Office of the Architect and the Senate. They claim the architect has knowingly exposed them to life-threatening asbestos disease. Furthermore, the workers contend their earlier complaints have resulted in increased harassment and reprisals against Tunnel Shop employees by the Office of Architect.

The workers and their attorney says three of the 10 electricians and steam-fitters have been checked so far and have been diagnosed with some degree of asbestosis.

The Office of the Architect of the Capitol released a statement saying, "safety remains as always a top priority. The AOC continues to implement measures that address structural, communication, asbestos, heat stress and egress issues."

The 10 Tunnel Shop employees fear the Architect is planning to privatize all or most of the duties they perform with an outside contractor. Their next step is expected to be a court suit.