A recent WorkSafeBC report, acquired through a freedom of information request, exposes that the operator of a Sandman Hotel in Williams Lake had previously breached asbestos regulations on numerous occasions at various locations in British Columbia. The report details a substantial 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, a lack of decontamination measures, and only one worker wearing a disposable dust mask voluntarily. Despite prior knowledge from a pre-construction report that asbestos was present in drywall compound and lead-based paint in the hotel, the risks were not communicated to employees.
The report states that due to these shortcomings, individuals accessing the renovation area were likely exposed to asbestos and other hazardous materials. Furthermore, cross-contamination within the hotel and the spread of contaminated debris to other areas were probable risks.
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.
The report highlighted the confirmed carcinogenic nature of asbestos and lead, suggesting potential exposure to asbestos fibers by hotel workers and guests during the extensive renovation project. The company’s lack of action despite being aware of the presence of asbestos resulted in worker exposure to a known carcinogen.
WorkSafeBC’s penalty of over $620,000 against Northland was justified based on the operator’s history of multiple violations related to asbestos across various Sandman Hotel locations in British Columbia. The company had received numerous penalties, stop-work orders, and safety notices concerning hazardous material exposure over more than a decade.
Northland Properties, headquartered in Vancouver, operates multiple hospitality 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.
In response to the report, a Northland spokesperson emphasized that no guests were exposed to asbestos or hazardous materials. The company has requested a review of the administrative penalty from WorkSafeBC, stating that they promptly addressed the identified issues to prioritize the health and safety of their staff and guests.