The V.I. Department of Labor has announced the immediate and temporary closure of its St. Croix office, effective Tuesday, July 22 at 11:45 a.m., citing serious health and safety concerns raised by staff.
DOL said employees reported persistent sewage odors, gaseous fumes, and a burning wire smell within the facility. In response, the department evacuated the building and implemented remote work accommodations where feasible, citing adherence to workplace safety protocols and an abundance of caution.
Labor Commissioner Gary Molloy confirmed that the building’s landlord has been formally notified. In coordination with V.I. Fire Services, the V.I. Waste Management Authority, and private contractors including OTL Mechanical and Caribbean Cooling, an on-site investigation is underway to identify and remediate the source of the odors.
“We take the health and safety of our employees and the public very seriously,” said Molloy. “Our goal is to restore full operations as quickly and safely as possible.”
While the St. Croix office remains closed, the department is encouraging members of the public to access services via the St. Thomas office by calling (340) 776-3700 or by visiting the department’s website at www.vidol.gov.
The department has pledged to keep the community informed and will provide updates as more information becomes available. Normal operations will resume once it is deemed safe to do so.
British Caribbean News
