Key Takeaways
- Asbestos was found in the Clarion County Courthouse during a major renovation, including in the basement floor tile discovered in 2024.
- The renovation of the 1885 courthouse included a new HVAC system, new electrical wiring, rebuilt offices, and replacement of aging mechanical systems such as the boiler room.
- County offices temporarily moved to Shippenville, and the renovated courthouse reopened in July 2026.
- Asbestos is common in older public buildings and is generally safe when intact, but it can release dangerous fibers when disturbed during renovation or demolition.
- Construction, maintenance, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing workers in older buildings have historically faced the greatest risk of asbestos exposure.
- If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma after working in older buildings, call 800-505-6000 for a free case review.
Asbestos was discovered in the basement floor tiles of the Clarion County Courthouse. Earlier this year, the building underwent renovations due to a previous discovery of asbestos, and more was found in the basement. Historically, in much of the building’s construction, there is asbestos in Clarion’s courthouse. It is not uncommon for older buildings to contain asbestos. The demolition and remodeling the building is undergoing are part of a bigger project that aims to install a new HVAC system, fire suppression system, and parking.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral known to cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory complications. Asbestos was a useful material in many industries because it was fireproof and durable. When asbestos is agitated, sharp fibers are released. If these fibers are breathed in over an extended amount of time, they can cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, or other asbestos-related diseases. This is why there are specific companies for asbestos removal called asbestos abatement. These companies have the proper equipment and knowledge to safely handle asbestos.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an extremely rare but fatal lung cancer that affects those who have been exposed to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma include:
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- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- fatigue
- fever
- difficulty breathing
- trouble swallowing
- hoarseness
If you have worked in an role that has any level of asbestos present, such as insulation, plumbing, construction, electrical work, auto mechanics, firefighting, boiler room mechanics, and have the above symptoms, you may have mesothelioma, asbestosis, or another asbestos-related disease. You should see a doctor as soon as possible to determine your condition.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos related disease, you may be entitled to financial compensation. The experienced team at the Halpern Law Firm has over 35 years if experience in filing mesothelioma claims for victims. We will walk you through every step of the legal process. For a free consultation, call (800) 505-6000 or fill out our contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was asbestos found in the Clarion County Courthouse?
Asbestos was discovered during the courthouse renovation, including in the basement floor tile, which was identified in 2024. Asbestos-containing materials are common in buildings of the courthouse’s age and were addressed as part of the renovation project.
Is the Clarion County Courthouse open now?
Yes. After closing for renovations in 2024, the Clarion County Courthouse reopened in July 2026, and county offices returned from their temporary location in Shippenville.
Is asbestos in older buildings dangerous?
Asbestos that is intact and undisturbed generally poses little risk. The danger comes when materials such as floor tile, pipe insulation, or plaster are damaged, deteriorate, or are disturbed during renovation or demolition, releasing fibers that can be inhaled.
Who is most at risk when older buildings are renovated?
Construction workers, demolition crews, HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, and maintenance staff are typically most at risk because their work can disturb asbestos materials. Licensed asbestos abatement contractors use protective equipment and containment to reduce exposure.
Why do so many older public buildings contain asbestos?
For much of the 20th century, asbestos was used in flooring, ceiling tiles, plaster, boiler and pipe insulation, and fireproofing because it was durable, fire-resistant, and inexpensive. Many courthouses, schools, and government buildings were built or updated during that period.
I worked on older buildings in Clarion County and was diagnosed with mesothelioma. What should I do?
Write down the buildings and job sites where you worked, approximate dates, your trade, and any asbestos materials you remember. Then speak with an experienced asbestos attorney. The Halpern Law Firm serves western and northwestern Pennsylvania, including Clarion County. Call 800-505-6000 for a free case review.
