Smithsonian Secretary Says Asbestos Poses No Risk

In the past month, two Smithsonian museums have both faced allegations of improper asbestos abatement techniques and unsafe working conditions.

In response, Smithsonian Secretary G. Wayne Clough met with a congressional panel to discuss the recent asbestos-related issues facing the museum. Clough informed that panel that he had ordered free health screenings for all employees, as well as a “complete review” of safety policies and procedures.

As he spoke before the committee, Clough said, “I want to assure the committee and the American people that our museums are safe, open and free as always…We have never had an indication of unacceptable levels of asbestos risk to the public in any of our museums.”

Clough spoke before the Committee on House Administration, which has jurisdiction over Smithsonian operations.

He announced that all current or former Smithsonian employees, and its large corps of volunteers, will be offered free screenings at the Smithsonian Occupational Health Services. Exposure to asbestos may lead to the onset of pleural mesothelioma, a fatal form of cancer.

The hearing was called after The Washington Post reported last month that an exhibits specialist at the National Air and Space Museum claimed that he and other workers were never told of asbestos in the walls of the building. Asbestos issues have also plagued another Smithsonian museum, the National Museum of American History.

Members of a local steamfitting union have alleged that asbestos dust was improperly contained and traveled throughout the building during renovations on the Museum of American History.

During the renovation, the building was closed to the public. However, the Smithsonian staff continued to work.

A group of asbestos experts and construction officials testified after Clough.