A recent report from WorkSafeBC, obtained through a freedom of information request, has uncovered that the operator of a Sandman Hotel in Williams Lake had violated asbestos regulations at least twelve times across various locations in British Columbia. The report details a penalty of $624,051.48 imposed on Northland Properties by B.C.’s workplace regulator for failing to ensure worker safety during a renovation project at the Williams Lake hotel in December 2025.
During an inspection, a WorkSafeBC inspector observed visible mold on the walls, lack of decontamination measures, and only one worker wearing a disposable dust mask voluntarily. Despite prior knowledge of asbestos in the drywall compound and lead paint in the hotel, the risks were not communicated to the employees, exposing them to hazardous materials.
Following the inspection, a stop-work order was issued at the site, prompting the hotel operator to initiate asbestos abatement before resuming the renovation. The workplace regulator criticized Northland for not demonstrating due diligence in ensuring asbestos safety and compliance with safety regulations for workers.
The report emphasized the serious health risks posed by asbestos and lead exposure, noting that workers and guests at the hotel may have been exposed to asbestos fibers during the renovation. The lack of proactive measures by the employer was highlighted as a significant concern, considering the confirmed carcinogenic nature of asbestos.
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 B.C. The report highlighted a pattern of non-compliance and lack of sustained action by the employer to prevent future violations and protect workers from hazardous material exposure.
Northland Properties, a prominent Vancouver-based hospitality firm, operates several brands including Sandman Hotels. Despite the company’s claims that no guests were exposed to asbestos or hazardous materials, WorkSafeBC disclosed that corrective actions were taken following the inspection. Northland has requested a review of the administrative penalty as part of its commitment to ensuring the health and safety of its staff and guests.