(WASHINGTON) — Following the recent demolition of the East Wing of the White House, concerns have emerged regarding the safety measures taken to handle asbestos, a hazardous material linked to serious health risks. Critics, including lawmakers and public health advocates, are questioning whether the Trump administration and the contractors involved adhered to federal health and safety regulations during the demolition process.

Senator Edward Markey, a Democrat from Massachusetts, sent a letter to ACECO, the Maryland-based contractor responsible for the demolition, demanding evidence that they complied with regulations for the safe removal of asbestos and lead. Markey expressed concern that the demolition could have jeopardized the health of construction workers, nearby office employees, and tourists. "The demolition of a structure of the age and historic national significance of the East Wing demands the highest possible standards of care, not the lowest bid and a blind eye toward regulation," he wrote.

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) also raised alarms, stating that federal law mandates comprehensive asbestos inspections and abatement before any demolition. They noted that no publicly available information confirms that these legal requirements were met. A White House official stated that a thorough abatement and remediation assessment was conducted prior to the demolition, but did not confirm whether asbestos was present in the East Wing.

Linda Reinstein, president of ADAO, expressed skepticism about the White House's claims, stating, "I have seen no public evidence to suggest that an assessment or abatement took place." She emphasized the importance of rigorous inspections and proper documentation when handling hazardous materials like asbestos.

Asbestos, commonly used in construction for insulation and fireproofing, poses significant health risks. Exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to lung diseases, including mesothelioma and asbestosis. Dr. Raja Flores, a lung specialist, warned that even minimal exposure can have severe long-term health consequences. "You wouldn’t catch me in there — not without a mask and not without precautions," he said, referring to the demolition site.

The East Wing, originally completed in 1800 and renovated in the 1940s and 50s, likely contained asbestos due to its age and the construction practices of that era. Critics have pointed out that the rapid demolition, part of a project to build a new ballroom funded by private donations, has faced backlash from the public. Recent polling indicates that 56% of Americans oppose the demolition of the East Wing.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended the demolition, suggesting that the East Wing's condition warranted immediate action. He stated that experts informed President Trump there were "zero zoning conditions" for the project, allowing for swift progress. However, the White House has faced criticism for not waiting for federal review boards to assess the project.

Markey's letter to ACECO requests details about the demolition timeline, the processes followed, and any incidents reported. He has asked for a response by November 12. Meanwhile, concerns persist about the potential risks posed by demolition debris that may contain asbestos, especially if it is moved off-site without proper safety measures.

As the situation develops, public health advocates continue to call for transparency and accountability regarding the handling of hazardous materials during the East Wing demolition. The White House has not disclosed all contractors involved in the project, nor has it released documentation of any inspections or safety measures taken prior to the demolition.

The ongoing scrutiny highlights the importance of adhering to safety regulations when dealing with hazardous materials, particularly in high-profile projects like the White House renovation.