Asbestos Alert: Dayton, Ohio Building Contains Mesothelioma-Causing Asbestos Materials

In downtown Dayton, Ohio, operations at the Kettering Center were brought to a standstill due to asbestos-related complications last week. The announcement was made by a spokeswoman from Wright State University, which operates the building. Said spokeswoman Stephanie Gottschlich, “Wright State University doesn’t have the funds to abate [the asbestos]…We’re working with the city of Dayton to secure funds for the abatement.”

Gottschlich told reporters that she did not know how much asbestos removal would cost, or in what sort of materials asbestos was located. Asbestos removal is often costly due to the precautions taken to prevent exposure to airborne asbestos particles but is required under federal and state law. When inhaled, these particles may cause conditions like mesothelioma or asbestosis. “We’re also talking with the city for an appropriate use for the downtown building,” she added.

Studies estimate that approximately 3,000 different types of commercial products include asbestos. While the material has fallen out of favor in new construction due to health risks, it is generally considered safe as long as it is encapsulated and intact. When the material breaks down, is damaged, or disturbed, airborne fibers can be released.

The building was home to Wright State University’s Center for Performance Excellence, as well as the Wright State University Center for Healthy Communities. Both of these operations were relocated, a move that will affect an as-yet-unnamed number of university employees.