Constructed over a period of 32 years between 1867 and 1899, the New York State Capitol Building was the most expensive government building of its time, with a total construction cost of $25 million at its completion. Located between Washington and State Streets in Albany, New York, the State Capitol Building houses the chambers of the New York State Assembly and Senate, offices for senior legislative officials and the primary office of the Governor of New York. The construction of the Capitol was overseen by five different architects, including H.H. Richardson, who previously designed the Buffalo State Hospital. The New York State Capitol Building was listed on the National Register of Historical Places in 1971, and in 1979, it was designated a National Historic Landmark. A lengthy renovation of the Capitol Building began in 2000, in order to upgrade antiquated utilities and preserve its unique architectural design.

Up until the late 1970s, asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in construction and maintenance of the New York State Capitol Building. Workers who handled materials that contained asbestos or worked in the vicinity of others who did are at high risk for developing an asbestos-related disease, such as mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Asbestos-containing pipe covering and insulating cement were applied to steam and hot water pipes throughout the New York State Capitol. Handling or cutting lengths of pipe covering emitted asbestos-containing dust and fibers into the air. Pipe elbows and valves required insulating cement because of their irregular shape. Insulating cement was manufactured as a dry powder, and it was mixed with water to form a paste. Pouring and mixing the asbestos-containing cement emitted asbestos fibers and dust into the air. Due to wear and tear on some of the pipes, asbestos-containing pipe covering required repair and maintenance. Worn asbestos insulation was dismantled and replaced. Removing and replacing asbestos-containing pipe covering was an extremely dusty process and created enormous dust clouds.

Asbestos-containing joint compound was also utilized during renovations of the Capitol Building. Joint compound (mud) was applied to seams and joints over drywall tape. After the compound dried, it was sanded down to a smooth surface. During both the mixing process of asbestos joint compound and sanding process, dust and fibers were released into the air putting not only plasterers at risk for exposure, but others who also worked in the same vicinity.

Our clients understand the importance of securing legal representation as soon as possible after a diagnosis of mesothelioma or lung cancer. If you or a loved one were once employed as a laborer at the New York State Capitol Building and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, we urge you to contact us regarding your legal rights.