Health Sciences Centre
Some staff working at the Health Sciences Centre were evacuated Monday after the discovery of a reactive substance.
A Winnipeg Regional Health Authority spokesperson says a small amount of the substance was found, which is “potentially reactive” in its dry form.
“The substance, picric acid, is a standard lab material in its liquid form used to preserve muscle tissue for further testing. Laboratory staff are trained and skilled in its safe use.”
The spokesperson says safety staff, the fire marshal and security immediately secured the area. Staff working nearby were temporarily evacuated as a safety precaution.
The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service’s Hazmat and paramedic crews responded, as Winnipeg police safely removed the substance without incident.
“At no point was there a risk to adjacent areas or the broader hospital campus,” a statement said.
The lab has since resumed regular operation.
