Public service unions are highlighting persistent issues with workplace conditions in federal buildings across the National Capital Region, citing a surge in reports of pests as employees are urged to return to offices. According to Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC), there were 549 confirmed pest reports in 93 Crown-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), emphasized the significance of the figures, indicating that the reported 500 cases in eight months reveal substantial issues within federal workplaces. O’Reilly expressed concerns about the lack of action from the employer in addressing these ongoing concerns, as members frequently report unsatisfactory office conditions.
Members have reported instances such as dead mice in kitchenettes and bedbugs in offices, leading to temporary closures for fumigation to combat infestations. O’Reilly stressed that these conditions not only impact workers’ productivity but also jeopardize their ability to effectively serve the public.
While PSPC acknowledged the commonality of pests in commercial real estate, it described these reports as isolated incidents rather than widespread infestations. The agency assured that it takes pest reports seriously, with pest management programs integrated into building operations to ensure timely investigations and resolutions.
Alex Silas, national executive vice-president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), echoed similar concerns, highlighting the prevalence of pest issues in federal office buildings both in the National Capital Region and nationwide. Silas emphasized the impact of such conditions on workers’ well-being and productivity, particularly as the government pushes for increased in-office work.
Both unions emphasized the importance of employees utilizing workplace health and safety processes to address and escalate any future pest-related concerns in federal buildings. Silas also drew attention to broader infrastructure challenges, noting that a significant portion of federal office sites in Ottawa and Gatineau require substantial renovations to enhance usability as workspaces.