The K-25 Building has been shut down since the mid 1960's. Maintenance activities continued to decrease over time. Ventilation systems are inactive and metal plates have been welded over ceiling openings in some vaults due to security requirements. The roof is in need of repair and there is a continual problem with water leaking into the vaults. The accumulation of moisture and the lack of ventilation were ideal conditions for the growth of mold, fungi, and bacteria.
Most vaults are radiologically controlled areas.
Prior work-related occupational illnesses, the potential for exposures to airborne mold, fungi, and bacteria had not been included in these considerations. A series of evaluations by Industrial Hygiene in response to concerns raised by employees were conducted and typically included notations on conditions in the affected vaults and work operations in the area. In accordance with currently accepted commercial practices, sampling included collection of airborne samples from within the affected vault area and outside the building for comparison purposes. Results of the evaluations conducted were transmitted in the form of a memorandum to supervisors that discussed physical observations and relayed the results of the sampling that had been conducted. The sampling results indicated that at times there were measurable airborne bioaerosol levels in the vaults.