Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is situated between 48th and 51st St. in New York City. Named after John D. Rockefeller Jr., is a complex comprised of 19 modernist style buildings, on land leased by Columbia University in 1928. While the Great Depression slowed construction in 1930, the majority of the Art-Deco style buildings were completed by 1939, the largest privately-held complex of its kind in the world. It was dedicated a National Historic Landmark in 1987, as a symbol of modern architecture and the prowess of capitalism in the United States.
Today, some of New York City's most famous landmarks sit at the Rockefeller Center complex. The ice rink and Christmas tree at Rockefeller square have become national symbols of the winter season. Radio City Music Hall, which occupies a portion of the complex, is one of the great examples of Art-Deco performance halls in the world. Surrounding the ice-rink and Rockefeller Square fly the flags of every member county of the United Nations, further signifying the complex as one of the true cosmopolitan landmarks in the world.
Unfortunately, with all the history and cosmopolitan glory of the Rockefeller Center complex, comes a degree of hazard. The climate of New York City required that all fittings in the complex be insulated against the harm of cold or other temperature extremes. At the time the complex was constructed, one of the most common insulation materials was asbestos. Asbestos proved to be an exceptional insulator and was also useful in the protection against temperature extremes. It was used commonly on piping, electrical, and construction fittings for these qualities.
In the late 1970's, a connection between asbestos and respiratory illness eventually led to its federal ban. Unfortunately, many people handled asbestos regularly prior to its ban, leading to hazardous exposures. Those who worked in the construction or the maintenance of the Rockefeller Center complex may be at risk for developing asbestos related illness. Any repair work dealing with older fixtures in the complex could be potentially dangerous. It is important for these people to monitor their health closely and consult a doctor if respiratory symptoms manifest.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
