Sir Allan MacNab reopens after investigation into ‘asbestos breach’

Sir Allan MacNab Secondary School is reopening today after it closed for an asbestos investigation.

The Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board said students were dismissed immediately around 1 p.m. Tuesday afternoon when they were informed of a disturbance to asbestos-containing material at the school.

Health Canada said asbestos can cause cancer and other diseases if inhaled.

The principal of the high school said a thin application of compound paint containing asbestos was found on the concrete walls on April 30.

A contractor used a power tool to fasten some clips into the wall, and on Tuesday, some residual dust was found in certain classrooms. As a precaution, the school was closed.

Environmental consultants have deemed the exposure insignificant and said it is safe to re-enter.