Condition of the Utility Tunnels Remains Substantially Unchanged

AOC has taken some steps to mitigate problems in the tunnels and has initiated some actions to resolve them, but little change has taken place thus far.

To mitigate problems, AOC has installed supports to parts of the ceiling of one tunnel to minimize the potential of falling concrete; required individuals entering the tunnels to wear protective equipment and clothing; contracted with FOH for air sampling and asbestos condition assessments; purchased a portable air-conditioning system; begun upgrades to the tunnels’ communication system; and improved several tunnel emergency escape exits. In addition, an AOC contractor has completed structural assessments of three of the five tunnels and determined that they are not in danger of collapse. AOC has received a draft assessment report on the fourth tunnel, and the assessment of the fifth tunnel is still in progress.

While AOC has taken a number of actions to begin addressing the problems identified in the tunnels, few of the problems have been resolved thus far and the condition of the tunnels remains substantially unchanged. Problems persist, including the potential for falling concrete, loose asbestos, and high heat; communication systems that do not provide consistent coverage throughout the tunnels; a lack of adequate emergency egress; inadequate lighting; and a lack of emergency lighting. Progress in addressing the tunnel problems has been hindered because the conditions that AOC and its contractors are trying to address make it difficult for them to work, according to AOC officials.

In a preliminary report in July 2006, FOH identified asbestos in the material used to insulate pipe and pipe fittings in three of the four walkable tunnels. According to FOH, in two of the tunnels inspected, the condition of the insulation on both steam pipes and condensate lines was good overall. FOH has not completed its inspection of the third tunnel because the tunnel had been closed. FOH does not believe that dust in the tunnels contains asbestos except where the asbestos insulation has been damaged.

According to OOC officials, OOC does not concur with this assessment because it found asbestos in dust samples taken off pipe coverings in areas where damage to the insulation material was not apparent. FOH recommends the complete abatement of all asbestos in the tunnels. However, if complete abatement is not practicable, then FOH recommends that damaged insulation be removed or repaired. Specifically, according to FOH, insulation on either side of the stanchions that hold utility pipes has been damaged by pipe movement and should be removed; other damaged insulation should be repaired; and periodic inspections should be done. FOH has provided limited data analysis indicating that for some activities in the tunnels, protective equipment may not be necessary. However, AOC has stated that it will continue to require protective equipment until further analysis is completed.

Courtesy of The United States Government Accountability Office

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