Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement for Hamilton on June 6 indicating high levels of air pollution in our environment due to smoke from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario.

St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton’s Redevelopment and Building Services teams are aware that some areas at our various sites may have a fire odour or unpleasant smell. St. Joe’s buildings are compliant with Canadian Standards Association (CSA) standards for ventilation and our Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) filtration system filters meet the standards. What you are currently experiencing are odours only.

There may be a lingering smell in the coming days. Our teams will continue to assess the situation and will take whatever further actions are needed under the circumstances to ensure we remain compliant with air quality standards.

As recommended by Environment Canada, you are asked to:

• Keep windows closed
• Limit outdoor activity

Be sure to check on people in your care and those around you who may be more susceptible to smoke.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.