Skip to main content
Content Medically Reviewed & Updated: March 8, 2026 Call 24/7: 1-800-400-1805
1-800-400-1805 Free Case Review
Diagnosed? Get a Free Mesothelioma Case Review No cost · No obligation · Attorneys available 24/7 Get Started
Construction

The Pentagon

The Pentagon

The Pentagon The Pentagon, headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, was built during World War II using construction materials that contained large quantities of asbestos. As the world's largest office building, the facility required decades of ongoing maintenance and renovation that exposed workers to asbestos-containing materials.

Last verified: 2026-03-09
Written by Paul Danziger, J.D. & Rod De Llano, J.D.
•
Legally reviewed by Michelle Whitman, Mesothelioma Litigation Specialist
•
30+ years of mesothelioma litigation experience
Location
Arlington, VA
Industry
Government Building
Exposure Era
1941–1943
Primary Asbestos Products
Spray-on fireproofing, Floor tiles, Pipe insulation, Ceiling tiles, Boiler insulation
Job Categories at Risk
Construction workers, Maintenance workers, Electricians, Plumbers, HVAC technicians, Demolition workers

History & Asbestos Use

Built between 1941 and 1943 in just 16 months, the Pentagon's rapid wartime construction relied heavily on asbestos-containing fireproofing, insulation, and building materials standard for the era. The 6.5-million-square-foot building has undergone continuous renovation since its construction, with major asbestos abatement projects occurring during the Pentagon Renovation Program that began in the 1990s. The September 11, 2001 attack caused additional asbestos exposure during rescue and reconstruction.

Exposure Details

Asbestos was used in spray-on fireproofing, pipe insulation, floor tiles, ceiling materials, and heating system components throughout the building. Maintenance workers, electricians, and plumbers working in utility chases and mechanical rooms encountered deteriorating asbestos insulation regularly. Renovation projects disturbed asbestos materials that had been in place for decades, requiring extensive abatement procedures.

Workers at Risk

The following job categories at The Pentagon had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:

  • Construction workers
  • Maintenance workers
  • Electricians
  • Plumbers
  • HVAC technicians
  • Demolition workers

Health Effects

Construction workers who built the Pentagon, generations of maintenance staff, and renovation workers have faced asbestos exposure risks over the building's 80-year history. Military personnel and civilian employees working near renovation areas may also have experienced incidental exposure. Workers involved in the post-9/11 rescue and reconstruction at the Pentagon faced additional asbestos exposure from damaged building materials.

Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.

Compensation May Be Available

Workers exposed to asbestos at The Pentagon may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.

Find Out If You Qualify

Were You Exposed to Asbestos at The Pentagon?

Workers who were employed at The Pentagon between 1941–1943 may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.

Speak with an Attorney — Free Request a Free Case Evaluation

Related Exposure Sites

Construction

U.S. Capitol Building

Washington, DC

Treatment Centers in Virginia

If you were exposed to asbestos at The Pentagon and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in Virginia may be able to help.

UVA Cancer Center

UVA Cancer Center

Charlottesville, VA

Comprehensive Cancer Center
View Full Profile

Browse all treatment centers →

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the Pentagon contain asbestos?

The Pentagon was built in 1941-1943, when asbestos was a standard construction material valued for its fire resistance and insulating properties. The building's massive scale meant thousands of tons of asbestos-containing materials were used in its construction.

Has asbestos been removed from the Pentagon?

The Pentagon Renovation Program, which began in the 1990s, has included extensive asbestos abatement as each section of the building is modernized. The multi-decade renovation process has removed significant quantities of asbestos, but work continues in unrenovated sections.

Can military or civilian Pentagon workers file asbestos claims?

Civilian workers and contractors who developed asbestos-related diseases from Pentagon exposure may file claims against asbestos product manufacturers. Military personnel may have additional options through VA benefits for service-connected asbestos-related conditions.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one worked at The Pentagon and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.

Free & Confidential No upfront costs, no hidden fees. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Nationwide Representation Licensed to handle mesothelioma cases in all 50 states from our Houston office.
Over 25 Years of Experience Our attorneys have recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients and families.
Fast Results Trust fund claims can resolve in as few as 90 days. We move quickly for our clients.

Or call us 24/7: 1-800-400-1805

Take the First Step — It's Free

Your information is protected by attorney-client privilege. We never share your data. No fees unless we recover compensation for you.

No Fees Unless We Win 100% Confidential Available 24/7

Sources:

  • Department of Defense historical records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • Pentagon Renovation Program documents — accessed 2026-03-09
  • EPA records — accessed 2026-03-09
← All Exposure Sites in Virginia ← All Exposure Sites
Call Now: (800) 400-1805 Free Case Review • Available 24/7