Overview

• Both Main Square and Birchmount pools have remained closed since July 29 when lifeguards and attendants walked off the job citing extreme indoor heat.
• CUPE Local 79 reported humidex values between 40°C and 45°C this week, exceeding the threshold that mandates extra staffing and on-site medical support.
• The union attributes the unsafe conditions to malfunctioning Dectron dehumidification units that failed to control humidity.
• Environment Canada’s ongoing heat warning predicts humidex readings above 45°C in Toronto through Wednesday night, heightening health risks.
• CUPE Local 79 leaders criticized the City of Toronto for neglecting maintenance of aging pool infrastructure and failing to implement timely cooling solutions.