Temporary closure of the centre sportif by Gatineau as a preventive measure

Gatineau, February 2, 2017. – Ville de Gatineau is temporarily closing all access to the centre sportif until further notice, for a minimum of 24 hours. Municipal crews conducting regular maintenance on the chlorination system this morning noticed that part of a fibre cement pipe containing a small proportion of chrysotile asbestos appeared to be in questionable condition.

Quick facts

●	The area, located in the basement of the centre sportif, was also closed off as a preventive measure.

●	Gatineau has informed the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) of the situation.

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It is important to remember that large amounts of asbestos were used in most public and private buildings constructed in Quebec. In this case, it is not a matter of insulation, but rather of a sewer pipe containing a small amount of chrysotile. In this particular case, the risk level is considered low, given that for materials containing asbestos, the risk level is contingent upon the condition of the materials and the potential for disturbance. That potential for disturbance depends on the following factors: access, brittleness, activity level, exposed surface, type of asbestos and proportion of asbestos content.

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Asbestos is a substance that is known for its insulation and fireproofing quality, and for increasing the resistance of products such as cement and plastics. That is why it is so abundant in industrial facilities and buildings. It is important to realize that as long as the materials are not handled, they do not present any danger.

●	Residents enrolled in classes and who were planning on using the facilities over the next few days should call 311 or check the municipal Web site if they have any questions.

●	The centre sportif is a large 18,500 square metre complex that has, among other things, an Olympic-sized pool, gymnasiums, courts and a fitness centre with the latest high-tech equipment.

Quote

“I would like to reassure the public that this closure is strictly preventive. Our crews acted diligently and cautiously in shutting down the centre sportif and hiring a firm of experts to take samples and conduct the analyses. Representatives of that firm are currently on site, accompanied by municipal crews,” indicated Gatineau Mayor Maxime Pedneaud-Jobin.

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