For the past two weeks, there have been multiple complaints online of noxious fumes coming from an asphalt company located in downtown Victoria, at the northmost end of Store Street.
Several Reddit threads have been created discussing the stronger than normal asphalt smell, which prompted the City of Victoria to look into the matter.
It was determined that Island Asphalt was responsible for the stench, which may be stronger than normal due to a higher-than-normal workload they are dealing with.
Island Asphalt is handling the paving of the new Keating Cross Road overpass, as well as several other contracts, which has caused their workload to be heavy at this time, thus prompting the strong asphalt fumes.
According to WorkSafeBC, fumes from asphalt are noxious.
When heated, asphalt releases fumes containing volatile organic compounds and other hazardous substances, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which can be harmful when inhaled.
WorkSafeBC says asphalt fumes can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea and skin rashes. Long-term exposure may increase the risk of certain cancers.
Because of the health risks asphalt fumes can cause, many on Reddit were calling on Victoria residents who can smell the fumes to report it to Victoria bylaw and the BC Ministry of Environment.
The most recent development regarding these fumes is that Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto released a statement on the situation.
“On behalf of Council I want assure the public that we hear and acknowledge your concerns regarding the noxious fumes reported in the city, and we are taking action,” said Alto.
“Staff are in conversation with Island Asphalt and the Province to address residents’ concerns.”
Mayor Alto also urges residents to report air quality pollution to the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks at their 24-hour phone line: 1-877-952-7277.
City staff say they are exploring all options and tools available to respond to the reported odours.
