The mechanical ring is closed until the problem is corrected. The arena area is closed indefinitely for air-quality testing that officials expect to take from two to four weeks. If the testing shows any further signs of asbestos, the Coliseum will be closed to remove it, said Becky Lofstead, WVU spokeswoman. The university is working with EPA to determine how best to go about testing. Right now, WVU has tentative plans to bring in as many asbestos-certified people as possible to help recreate reverberations and sound.
Asbestos is a generic term for a group of several mineral fibers that have similar characteristics.
For years, asbestos was used in construction because of its insulating properties. The asbestos in the ceiling lining would not be dangerous unless the material began to crumble and fibers got into the air, said Dr. Joseph Renn III, a pulmonary specialist. It can cause lung problems. According to WVU air-quality tests, asbestos fibers are not present above dangerous levels set by Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Return to the listing of articles of August 25, 1999.