A fire broke out at the U.S. State Department building located at 2200 C Street NW at approximately 4:30 Thursday morning, leaving the office temporarily closed. The building was in the process of asbestos abatement work.

Although undisturbed asbestos poses limited risk for exposure when the material is disturbed it poses significant risk. Exposure to disturbed asbestos-containing materials may result in the development of any one of a number of asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Because such diseases typically have such a long latency period treatment options for the diagnosed are often very limited.

Asbestos was used in a wide variety of building and automotive products throughout the early twentieth century. In the 1970’s upon the creation of the Occupational Health and Safety Administration the dangerous substance began to become more regulated in order to limit instances of exposure.

When asbestos is present during the outbreak of a fire the materials may spread which is why it is important for firefighters and investigators to be cautious.

Spokesman for the Washington, D.C. fire department has stated that there have been no reported injuries.

The fire is now being investigated and the office will continue to stay closed until that investigation is complete.

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