Montreal’s Douglas Mental Health University Institute has been forced to close its historic research wing, established over 150 years ago, due to asbestos exposure. The closure was ordered by Quebec’s workplace safety board, CNESST, after a burst pipe led to flooding in several laboratories at the institute. The incident, which occurred on January 27, resulted in the destruction of valuable equipment and research materials amounting to millions of dollars.
Employees are now prohibited from accessing the first and second floors of the research wing, as asbestos-containing materials were discovered in the plaster-cement walls, insulation, and acoustic ceiling tiles of the building. An inspection report from CNESST highlighted the potential danger of asbestos dust exposure, emphasizing the severe health risks associated with asbestos, including diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
The closure of the building was enforced under Quebec’s occupational health and safety law, with strict measures in place for the employer to address the situation. Access to the affected floors will only be granted once all asbestos-containing materials have been identified, inspected, and proven to be safe or have undergone necessary corrective actions as per safety regulations.
Until authorized by a CNESST inspector, entry into the Lehmann Pavilion is restricted to those with approved protective equipment, ensuring the safety of personnel. Despite CNESST’s intervention on January 30, the closure of the research wing continues, with no immediate plans for reopening.
