City Shuts Down Multiplex Due to Low-level Ammonia Leak

Port Alberni, BC – Due to a low-level ammonia leak detected in the Multiplex’s ice plant refrigeration system, all programs and services at the Multiplex have been cancelled and the facility will remain closed until further notice.

Accent Refrigeration Systems, the company responsible for the City’s ice plant maintenance, is on-site and has located the leak in a weld on a manufactured flange in the piping system. The City is working closely with Accent Refrigeration, WorkSafe BC and Technical Safety BC, to address the leak in a safe and timely manner; however, out of concern for public safety, Technical Safety BC has issued an order that the Multiplex ice plant be deactivated resulting in the closure. The City anticipates the closure to last approximately one week or longer.

“The City of Port Alberni takes its responsibility of being prepared for ammonia leaks in its facilities very seriously and staff followed the appropriate procedures to ensure everyone’s safety,” said Tim Pley, Chief Administrative Officer with the City of Port Alberni. “While it is unfortunate knowing that this shutdown will impact so many user groups at the Multiplex, the City supports Technical Safety BC’s decision in the interest of everyone’s safety. The City will continue to do everything in its power to repair the leak efficiently so programs and services at the Multiplex may resume.”

The City is reaching out to Multiplex user groups to advise them of the shutdown and will work with those affected to mitigate the impacts of the service interruption.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION
Tim Pley
CAO, City of Port Alberni
250-720-2824
timothy_pley@portalberni.ca