A major upgrade planned for the Hawai‘i ‘State Capitol building is complicated by concern that workers could be exposed to cancer-causing asbestos. The project has already been plagued by a hefty price tag—estimated at up to $100 million—and the potential prolonged closure of the building.
When the Hawai‘i State Capitol building last underwent major renovations in the 1990s, the project included removing asbestos present throughout the structure. Former Gov. John Waiheʻe acknowledged that although he had been assured that all asbestos had been removed from the building, particles might be discovered once the planned renovation work gets underway.
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The issues surrounding the project highlight a larger problem: the state tends to lag behind when it comes to continued building maintenance. A chronic leaky roof at the Hawai‘i Convention Center and the forced closure of the deteriorating Aloha Stadium illustrate this point. In November 2024, asbestos was found in a Department of Health building.
While asbestos is often found in building materials, Hawai’i residents face greater risk of exposure compared to other states based on the large concentration of military bases and the maritime industry—two sectors known for asbestos use. The Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard plays a crucial role in the economy—it is the largest industrial employer in the state.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber that has been used in building construction materials for insulation and as a fire retardant. Asbestos may be found in:
- Ceiling and floor tiles
- Roofing shingles
- Heat-resistant fabrics
- Packaging
- Steam pipe and hot water coatings
Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can cause the release of asbestos fibers into the air. People who are exposed to asbestos may end up developing harmful health effects, including cancer.
What are the Health Effects of Asbestos?
Asbestos exposure is linked to several serious health issues and diseases, including mesothelioma, a rare and deadly type of cancer that can develop in the lungs, heart, stomach, and surrounding tissue.
Asbestos exposure is also associated with:
- Asbestosis, a lung disease that impacts the lungs and respiratory tract
- Pleural disease, a lung condition that causes changes in the membrane surrounding the lungs and chest cavity
- Lung cancer
- Other types of cancer, including cancer of the larynx and ovaries
Who is at Risk for Mesothelioma or Other Diseases?
Anyone exposed to asbestos at some point in their lifetime is at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. The health hazards from asbestos fibers have been seen in workers whose jobs are in shipbuilding trades, mining and milling, the manufacture of asbestos products, insulation work in the construction and building trades, as well as work in several other trades.
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure in Hawai‘iSeek justice with the help of our experienced Hawai‘i asbestos attorneys. Our mesothelioma law firm has represented Hawai‘i residents like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 40 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
