A recent WorkSafeBC report, obtained through a freedom of information request, has uncovered that the operator of a Sandman Hotel in Williams Lake had violated asbestos regulations more than a dozen times at various locations across British Columbia. The report, detailing a penalty of $624,051.48 imposed on Northland Properties, stated that the company failed to prioritize worker safety during a renovation project at the Williams Lake hotel in December 2025.
During an inspection at the site, a WorkSafeBC inspector observed visible mold on the walls, the absence of decontamination measures, and only one worker wearing a disposable dust mask voluntarily. Despite a pre-construction report indicating the presence of asbestos in drywall compound and lead-containing paint, the risks were not communicated to employees by the hotel operator.
The report highlighted that due to these lapses, individuals accessing the renovation area were likely exposed to asbestos and other hazardous materials. The potential for cross-contamination within the hotel premises was also noted, with contaminated debris potentially spreading to other areas via footwear and clothing.
Following the inspection, WorkSafeBC issued a stop-work order at the site, leading the hotel operator to initiate asbestos abatement before resuming renovation activities. The workplace regulator criticized Northland for failing to demonstrate due diligence in ensuring asbestos safety and compliance with worker safety regulations.
An official quoted in the report emphasized that asbestos and lead are known carcinogens, suggesting that hotel workers and guests might have been exposed to asbestos fibers during the months-long renovation project. The report highlighted the employer’s possession of a hazardous materials survey indicating asbestos presence but a failure to take appropriate action, resulting in worker exposure to a confirmed carcinogen.
WorkSafeBC’s penalty of over $620,000 to Northland was justified based on the company’s history of multiple violations and fines related to asbestos across various Sandman Hotel locations in British Columbia. The report detailed past orders issued at sites in Kelowna, Richmond, Revelstoke, and Vancouver, indicating a pattern of hazardous material exposure non-compliance over more than a decade.
Northland Properties, a prominent Vancouver-based hospitality firm, operates various brands including Denny’s Canada, Grouse Mountain Resort, and Chop Steakhouse. The company, led by CEO Tom Gaglardi, also owns the NHL’s Dallas Stars.
Northland responded by stating that no guests were exposed to asbestos or hazardous materials and contested the administrative penalty imposed by WorkSafeBC. The company emphasized its commitment to prioritizing health and safety for all staff and guests, promptly addressing the issues highlighted by the regulator.
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