Palo Alto Asbestos Info | KR

VMware Asbestos Operations & Maintenance Program

VMware is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy building environment for our employees. 

 

During campus renovations of the Hilltop buildings (A, C, and E), asbestos-containing materials, commonly used in past construction, were removed by a licensed abatement contractor. In a few instances, however, asbestos-containing material that was inaccessible (inside structural elements) was left in place and completely enclosed (a process called "encapsulation"). All work was completed in accordance with strict health and safety regulations to protect human health and the environment. As required by law, we have placed signage in all of these buildings' entrances advising of the presence of encapsulated (inaccessible) asbestos. 

 

Now, and in the future, we will work to ensure that the protocols for safe handling of asbestos-containing materials are in place in order to protect your ongoing health and safety in our campus. 

 

If you are interested in learning more about VMware's Asbestos Operations & Maintenance Program, please refer to the FAQs below.

FAQ

I heard that asbestos is present in some of the buildings; is that true? 

I heard that asbestos is present in some of the buildings; is that true?

Yes. It was common for buildings constructed in the 1960s and 1970s to use asbestos containing materials. This material was identified by experts who surveyed the buildings for asbestos and such materials were handled in a manner as required by law.

 

Rather than demolish entire buildings, we decided to do an extensive renovation and modernize some of the historic buildings at Hilltop. The renovations were completed in accordance with the guidance for handling asbestos-containing materials. We have taken the recommended measures to protect against asbestos exposure.

What was our approach to addressing the asbestos? 

What was our approach to addressing the asbestos?

Federal and State laws provide strict direction on how to manage abatement activities to protect our working environments from asbestos exposure. VMW addressed the asbestos in two ways.

 

  • Most asbestos was removed from the renovated Hilltop buildings by professional asbestos-abatement contractors.

 

  • Asbestos-containing materials in inaccessible parts of the buildings were contained in place. This is called encapsulation. These areas have been permanently sealed by professional contractors as a means of preventing exposure.

What are some examples of asbestos-containing materials? 

What are some examples of asbestos-containing materials?

The asbestos-containing materials typical for buildings constructed in the 1960s and 1970s are fireproofing, caulking, mastic adhesive and joint compounds.

Is the VMware campus safe? 

Is the VMware campus safe?

All of our buildings are maintained in accordance with strict state and federal requirements to protect human health and the environment.

Are there any other buildings on the Palo Alto campus with asbestos-containing materials? 

Are there any other buildings on the Palo Alto campus with asbestos-containing materials?

Creekside A, B, C and Promontory H were built around the same time as the older Hilltop buildings. These buildings were renovated in 2013 and 2014 and asbestos remediation was performed. To ensure compliance with all laws, we have added signage in those buildings advising the public of inaccessible asbestos that is encapsulated and sealed to prevent exposure.

I’d like more information. What can I do? 

I’d like more information. What can I do?

If you have further questions, you are welcome to contact Workplace at rewinfo-pa@vmware.com to set up a time to review the Operations and Maintenance documents that are available for the renovated buildings.