Fire Hazard Closes West Virginia State Complex in Institute

A state complex in Institute has been closed because of electrical problems that the state fire marshal says are an imminent threat to workers.

Media outlets report that Fire Marshal Sterling Lewis ordered the 15-building complex’s immediate closure on Monday. He also ordered the immediate shutoff of electrical power.

More than 160 employees of the Department of Rehabilitation Services work at the complex. The agency says it has implemented an operations continuity plan in which employees work from home or at other state offices.

Lewis says a storm-related problem last week revealed issues with cutting off power in the event of a fire.

A Department of Administration spokeswoman says the agency is reviewing options for the site.