Staff and students were evacuated from Duncan McArthur Hall due to a nauseous odour related to building renovations.
On Sept. 8 at 10:54 a.m., the University sent out a QUAlert—an alert system that sends out information “in the event of natural disasters, severe weather, high-risk situations or major service interruptions,”—stating the building was closed for the day.
“Duncan McArthur Hall at Queen’s University has been closed for the day due to “noxious odour” related to building renovations” the e-mail read.
This was followed up by a second QUAlert at 7:25 p.m. explaining that the fire alarm was intentionally activated earlier that morning in order to initiate an evacuation of the building. The Whig also reported that staff were removed as early as 9:30 a.m.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the building was temporarily closed for the balance of the day with access restrictions put into place. Since the temporary closure occurred, the construction zone and building have been ventilated. Although some lingering odour may be detectable in areas in proximity to the construction locations, air sampling has confirmed the building can be reoccupied,” the second alert wrote.
Duncan McArthur Hall will resume regular building hours on Sept. 9, and classes will proceed as scheduled.
This story will be updated once further details are provided.
Tags
Duncan McArthur Hall, QUAlert, renovations
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Paul Anderson
There is more to this story folks! Some questions: who in the Queen’s administration and facilities management is responsible for managing the D.M. Hall renovation? What is the scope of work on the building and how long will it last? Why was the work not scheduled in MAY, JUNE, JULY or AUGUST? Why was a GIANT HOLE with wires and service lines at the bottom dug in the driveway to Jean Royce Hall days before frosh move-in? Why was the hole left open for move-in day?; Why was the grass on West Campus uncut no landscape upkeep done? In generally: Why was West Campus so unwelcoming to new Queen’s Students?