The True Post (Web News)The popular indoor pool at Birchmount Community Centre in Toronto was closed on Tuesday due to extreme heat and humidity, which created unsafe working conditions for staff.
CUPE Local 79, the union representing city workers, stated that a mechanical issue in the pool led to elevated humidity levels, prompting staff to refuse to work under such conditions.
A heat warning is currently in effect for Toronto, with temperatures and humidity levels expected to remain dangerously high through Wednesday night.
According to the union, similar conditions last week forced work stoppages at the Main Square Community Centre indoor pool. They blamed poor city management for failing to provide proper cooling systems to ensure employee safety.
CUPE reported that temperatures inside the pools reached between 40 and 45 degrees Celsius, which, according to health and safety policies, requires additional staff and the presence of medical personnel. However, no medical staff were available when temperatures exceeded 45 degrees.
The City of Toronto’s website states that the Birchmount Community Centre pool is closed due to a “mechanical issue.” City officials said that the health and safety of both employees and the public is their top priority and that efforts are underway to resolve dehumidification system problems at both affected pools. The city aims to reopen the facilities as early as tomorrow.
During the shutdown, the city implemented extra measures for staff, including a 30% increase in staffing levels, provision of water and electrolytes, encouragement to work in shaded areas, installation of fans and air conditioners, and guidance for staff to cool down in the pool during breaks.
CUPE Local 79 President Naas Yaghodaleh stated that the situation highlights Toronto’s deteriorating infrastructure and poor management, putting both workers and the public at risk.
“Our members are being asked to work in dangerous conditions, and when they raise legitimate concerns, they are ignored or dismissed,” he said.