Mold and asbestos problems have workers at New Haven Superior Court concerned about their health but they are also frustrated because they feel they are not getting the answers they need.

One employee told News Channel 8 the conditions are "criminal", complaining many are suffering from respiratory problems.

From the outside, this New Haven courthouse is graceful and grand but workers say the air inside the 92 year old building is bad -making it hard for them to breathe.

"Members have been bringing concerns forward feeling sick, those kinds of issues."

It began last month when this pipe on the second floor burst over the weekend, flooding the courthouse.
The water traveled to the first floor, bringing down ceiling tiles and soaking offices.

Initial testing found mold spores. Testing continued today in the basement and News Channel 8 has learned asbestos was found in the floor tiles here.

Now the president of the local union is recommending workers monitor their health.

"Anytime a member feels like its a hazard to them they need to take the appropriate precautions they have to even if they have to go to a doctor," says Cynthia Egan, President AFSCME Local 749.

We want to make it clear the courthouse is open and cases continue to be heard and decided but the union claims workers have had concerns about the air quality for a long time.

"I don't know if it was mold but there's certainly been respiratory problems that would lead you to believe there's been something there over the years - its an old building."

Our pictures show the areas and offices affected by the flood are closed off but until more extensive results are in: employees are on edge.

"We're certainly be keeping an eye on this and use every remedy available to us to resolve this issue."
Nearly 100 people work in the building.

Now employees have filed complaints with the labor department, so more testing will be done in the building over the weekend.

                        XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

                                      Pure Air Control Services, Inc.

                                              1-800-422-7873