Event:

CAMPUS ALERT: McCain Building closed until further notice due to water issue

Description:

Thursday morning, we received reports of discoloured water in the Marion McCain Arts and Social Sciences Building. The decision was made to close the building around 9:30 a.m. in the interest of public safety, and pending confirmation of more details.

The McCain Building is now closed until further notice, at least through the duration of Monday, November 4. Further information will be shared on Monday as to the building’s status.

Details:

– An issue with the building’s heating system occurred shortly after 8 a.m., which led to two chemicals being introduced to the building’s water for a short period.
– The toxicity of the two chemicals is low, and there is very low risk for those who may have come in contact with the water by washing hands or using the washroom.
– With the safety of our community being our highest priority, we are encouraging individuals who may have consumed drinking water in the building during that timeframe (8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Thursday, October 31) to contact the Health Services clinic at 902-494-2171 or on the 2nd Floor of LeMarchant Place (1246 LeMarchant Street). The water would likely have had a bad smell or taste to it. If you took water with you in a bottle, discard the remaining water and wash the bottle several times with warm water and soap. If the bottle continues to have an odour, please discard.

We apologize for this inconvenience and appreciate your understanding while we complete the process to ensure the existing the water supply is flushed and fully tested.

Instructions:

Classes in the building are being rescheduled as best as possible. Further information will be shared with academic units via the Registrar’s Office. Students should expect updates from their instructors as to the status of their classes.

FASS faculty and staff will receive further instruction from the dean’s office. Dalhousie Human Resources is working with departments to communicate how this closure may have further impacts on faculty and staff.

Individuals who require items from the building will be allowed in to retrieve them under the supervision of Dal Security staff on site. There is no impact to access to the McCain Parkade.