Pentagon evacuates employees following hazardous materials incident

The Pentagon has begun evacuating some employees and restricting access to several areas of the building after problems with indoor air quality were detected.

According to Report, citing CNN, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the complex's monitoring systems identified a deterioration in air quality, prompting precautionary measures while the cause is being investigated.

"The Department is implementing standard protective protocols, including directing personnel in the affected area to shelter in place. Response teams are on site and prepared to assist building occupants," Parnell said.

According to the Arlington County Fire Department, a hazardous materials incident occurred at the Pentagon. Specialized chemical response teams have been dispatched to the scene and are working alongside the Pentagon's facility protection unit.

An internal Pentagon security notice indicated that additional air-quality testing could take between one and two hours.

The circumstances of the incident and the possible cause of the air-quality deterioration have not yet been determined. The investigation is ongoing.