WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- The House side of the U.S. Capitol was temporary closed Thursday morning for investigation into a possible asbestos release.
"During ongoing asbestos abatement work there was a potential release affecting the House side of the Capitol," officials said Thursday.
The House side of the building was reopened to staff and Congress members shortly after 9 a.m., according to a tweet from Capitol Hill reporter Frank Thorp.
"The House Side of the Capitol has reopened to Members and Staff with certain areas remaining closed, specifically the East Grand Staircase from floors 1 to 3 and room H-324," Architect of the Capitol announced. "All other areas of the House Side of the Capitol will return to normal operations, including tours of the Capitol Building."
Samples have been collected to determine whether there was potential exposure.
Architect of the Capitol and U.S. Capitol Police are investigating and will provide updates when available.
