Message to On-Campus Residents

Last night, a local television station ran a story about testing for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in a number of our facilities across campus, including in residence halls. First, let me acknowledge that I understand why this would cause concern, especially because of the way the station presented the information, which we believe was in an effort to stoke unnecessary fear and anxiety without reporting all of the facts.

Let me be very clear – our highest priority is the safety of our community, and especially of our on-campus residents. Where appropriate, NC State routinely tests building materials for hazardous substances, including PCBs, when conducting renovation projects. 

As is the case for buildings around the country, a number of the buildings on NC State’s campus were built during a time period when materials like asbestos, lead-based paint and PCBs were widely used in construction. Detection of a hazardous substance in a specific building material does not mean that people have been exposed to that substance. 

To put it plainly, if a building’s conditions appear in need of a more comprehensive examination, we will take – and have taken – action to ensure the safety of our community. 

You put trust in us to not only provide you with a valuable education and experience, but also to provide you with a safe environment in which to live and learn. We do not take that lightly, and we remain committed to maintaining that trust.

I recognize that words may only go so far to help with anxiety that some of you may be feeling. If you need support, please take advantage of the many resources available to you as a member of the Pack.

Thank you,

Randy Woodson
Chancellor