Notice Board

Science Commons Building Closure   
Wednesday, April 28, 2021

The University Facilities department will be performing a shutdown of the Science Commons emergency electrical system on Wednesday April 28, between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Due to the complexity of building systems that are required to be turned off to perform the work, including the building's ventilation system, it is necessary to close Science Commons for your safety.

Who is affected and how?

All users will have no access to the Science Commons building. All Science Commons entrance doors will be locked. Sign in and access for authorized personnel will only be through the Level 8 west entrance doors.

This shutdown will impact research equipment and building operations connected to the ‘emergency electrical system’ (RED electrical outlets).

Please note that research equipment and building operations connected to normal electrical power will not be affected (White and Orange electrical outlets).

Why will this happen?

This shutdown of the ‘emergency electrical system’ is necessary to install electrical equipment to allow an improved electrical transition from emergency power to normal building power.

Shutdown and de-energizing electrical equipment eliminates arc flash hazard and removes the chance of damaging equipment while mitigating shock and electrocution danger to those involved in performing high voltage work.

How does it affect me?

The Science Commons will be closed on April 28 between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. Only users required for research continuity or monitoring or assisting with research equipment affected by this emergency electrical system shutdown will be allowed to enter Science Commons. If access is required, please contact Nick Gabbin Gabbin@uleth.ca.

This electrical system shutdown will affect specific research equipment and building operations such as:

• Ventilation system will not be operational.
• Any equipment plugged into RED electrical outlets will not have electricity. All equipment plugged into RED electrical outlets must be turned off prior to 6am. If deemed essential to have equipment operational for research preservation or continuity please contact Nick Gabbin to make alternative arrangements gabbin@uleth.ca. These items will include Biosafety Cabinets, -80C Freezers to Fridges, and Growth Chambers.
• There will be no access to the Nitrogen Fill station in SA7424G
• There will be no access to the Science Stores and the following chemical or hazardous storage rooms: SA7420, SA7424A, SA7424B, SA7424C, SA7424E, SA7424F.
• Sinks with hand motion sensors in SA7102, SA7104, SA7106, SA7108, SA7110, SA7112, SA9454, SA9458, and SA9470 will not function.
• Fume Hoods will not be operational.
• Walk-in Cold Rooms cooling system will be off.
• R.O. Water will not be available.
• Elevators will not be operational.

For assistance:

If you have any questions, please contact Nick Gabbin, Project Manager, Project Management Office – Facilities

Email…………….Gabbin@uleth.ca