(Host) Test results show that nearly 30% of the workers in a state office building in Bennington are suffering from asthma-like symptoms.
The tests were conducted by the National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health and the overall results were shared with state employees today.
Six cases of a rare inflammatory disease called sarcoidosis have been diagnosed among the building’s current and former workers.
Another two cases have been reported but not confirmed. Officials say that’s more than ten times the expected rate. They say the evidence suggests the building itself is to blame.
The state is currently installing two modular office spaces for the building’s 135 employees.
Temporary quarters for the Department of corrections should be ready early in January. A second, larger space will house Bennington district and family courts and human services.