Supportive housing staff in some areas of B.C. are facing “substantial exposure” to secondhand fentanyl smoke, according to a new report.
The findings are based on an evaluation done by Sauve Safety Services on behalf of B.C.’s Housing Ministry and were conducted at 14 supportive housing locations in Vancouver and Victoria. The report concluded that some staff at these locations face levels of secondhand fentanyl smoke that “grossly exceeded applicable regulatory limits,” including limits established by WorkSafeBC.
B.C.’s Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs said in a statement it is aware of the health risks from fentanyl exposure and is “working closely with partners to act quickly and ensure frontline staff and residents are protected,” adding that “immediate steps are needed to reduce known risks identified through air quality testing.”…