Greater Victoria emergency crews responded to a hazardous materials call at the BC Cancer building on the Saanich side of the Royal Jubilee Hospital site.
The building’s second floor was evacuated Thursday morning after an “unknown noxious odour” was detected in the pharmacy area, according to the Provincial Health Services Authority.
Police cordoned off the front of the BC Cancer building while the Capital Regional District’s HAZMAT response unit, with aid from Oak Bay and Saanich fire crews, set up decontamination equipment.
B.C. Emergency Health Services said paramedics cared for and transported seven patients to hospital. Four patients were also assessed at the scene but did not require further treatment.
At around 3 p.m., the Saanich Fire Department said in a tweet that the situation had been stabilized.
Saanich Fire Department attended Royal Jubilee Hospital at 11:35 with support of CRD Regional Hazmat Team. Incident has been stabilized through quick action by our crews. Questions can be referred to Provincial Health Services Agency.
— Saanich Fire Department (@SaanichFire) February 2, 2023
An Island Health spokesperson said the incident did not impact patients at Royal Jubilee Hospital, which remains open.
First responders are currently on scene at the BC Cancer building near Royal Jubilee Hospital. Please be advised that access to the RJH emergency department through Bay and Richmond is not affected and the emergency department remains open and accessible for those in need.
— Island Health (@VanIslandHealth) February 2, 2023
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