Torrance Post Office Closed Due to Hazmat Investigation for Suspected Asbestos

Post Office Evacuation and Hazmat Response

• 🚨 A Torrance Post Office was abruptly shut down and evacuated after employees called the fire department due to concerns about potential asbestos exposure.
• 🔬 Hazmat units and LA County Health are on-site conducting tests, working alongside the fire department, to investigate the suspected asbestos.

Employee Concerns During Remodel

• 👷 Employees reported that a construction remodel, which included asbestos abatement, has been ongoing for months.
• ⚠️ Their primary concern was that the plastic sheeting used for asbestos protection had holes or was coming apart, allowing potential exposure to the employees' area.
• 🚚 Additionally, dug-up concrete, potentially containing asbestos, was placed in a bin just outside the employee entrance without being properly covered.

USPS Response and Customer Impact

• 🚫 USPS has closed the facility as a precaution while testing is conducted, stating that nothing has been confirmed at this time.
• 📦 Mail delivery and mail processing from the Torrance location have been halted, with mail not being removed from the building until testing results are known.
• 📍 Customers are being directed to nearby post offices, with the Delamo Mall location being the only one open for those needing to send or return packages.
• ❓ The duration of the closure is currently unknown, and customers expressed frustration that it took so long to address the situation.