On Friday, May 24, 2024, at approximately 4:30 p.m., the Lillooet Landfill was shut down following a potential chemical exposure incident. The closure was prompted when a punctured container of an unknown substance was dropped at the landfill, leading to the exposure, SLRD said in a social media post.
A landfill operator began exhibiting symptoms consistent with chemical exposure and was promptly taken to the hospital for observation. The staff member was discharged after evaluation. As a safety precaution, the landfill will remain closed until further notice, and residents are urged to avoid the area.
The Lillooet Fire Department responded immediately to the scene after the incident was reported. The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District (SLRD) has coordinated with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy and an Environmental Response Team, which is expected to be onsite today to assess the situation.
This incident highlights the critical importance of proper hazardous waste disposal. Hazardous materials pose significant risks to both landfill employees and the public. The Lillooet Landfill does not accept hazardous waste, and the SLRD urges residents to ensure they are disposing of materials correctly. Those uncertain about disposal procedures are encouraged to contact the SLRD at 604-894-6371 or via email at utilities@slrd.bc.ca.
At this time, the SLRD has no further information but will update its website and social media channels as new details become available.