Public service unions have raised concerns about the presence of pests in federal buildings throughout the National Capital Region, pointing to ongoing issues with workplace conditions as employees are being encouraged to return to offices. According to Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), there have been 549 confirmed reports of pests in 93 government-owned buildings in Ottawa-Gatineau between April 1 and Nov. 24. The pests reported include ants, bats, bedbugs, bees/wasps, birds, mice/rodents, and various small insects.
Sean O’Reilly, president of the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC), stated that the figures align with feedback from union members. He emphasized the significance of the 500 reports within eight months, highlighting substantial concerns within federal workplaces. O’Reilly noted instances of dead mice in kitchenettes and bedbugs in offices, leading to temporary closures for fumigation to address infestations that impact workers’ productivity.
PSPC responded by stating that pest incidents are common in commercial real estate and are managed through prompt investigations and pest management programs integrated into building operations. However, Alex Silas, national executive vice-president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), echoed similar complaints, emphasizing that pest issues in federal buildings are not new and pose health and safety risks for employees.
Silas highlighted instances of mouse droppings on desks and emphasized the importance of addressing pest concerns as the government encourages a return to in-office work. He also raised broader concerns about the state of federal office infrastructure in the region, noting that a significant percentage of worksites require major renovations for safe and functional use.
Both unions urged workers to report any future pest-related concerns through workplace health and safety channels, emphasizing the need for a conducive and safe work environment for all employees.
