FAIRHAVEN COMPLEX CONSTRUCTION

Update #2: April 1

Tests for fats, oil, and grease in the surrounding area earlier in March have shown very low levels, and while the smell is unpleasant, there are no health risks associated with the leak.

In addition, work on the Fairhaven Commons grease interceptor vault during spring break revealed that it will need replacement. The replacement work will be scheduled during summer break when the kitchen will not be active.

Until the replacement can be completed, regular pumping on the grease interceptor vault will be performed to prevent spillage and limit the odor in the Fairhaven complex. There will be an odor in the complex during the scheduled pumping operations, which will be done as needed and will continue through spring quarter.

• The odor will be worst for the initially scheduled pumping to be done Friday, April 4.
• Follow-on pumps performed may be less disruptive with reduced odors.  However, this will be uncertain until the work begins.

Water service to residences and Fairhaven academic building is not expected to be interrupted as a result of this issue and ongoing mitigation measures. Water used in sinks, showers, and drinking fountains is safe to consume.

Update #1: March 13

Investigations into the source of the odor in Fairhaven have revealed that it is likely caused by overflow or leaching from an exterior concrete grease interceptor structure outside of the Fairhaven dining commons. Contractors troubleshooting the system Monday morning confirmed that a structural problem is allowing leakage, probably through the building footer drains. This leak does not affect the water going into buildings (drinking water, shower, sink, etc.).

Temporary repair work is scheduled for Tuesday, March 25, from 8am – 5pm and will require a full dining commons kitchen shutdown for the duration of the work. To mitigate impacts on users, the work has been scheduled during spring break.

The contractor will pump, clean, and inspect the structure. Based on the inspection results, a temporary repair will be attempted to prevent further leakage until the structure can be lined or replaced. A timeline for the permanent repair will be established during the work on the 25th.

WWU Environmental Health and Safety and Facilities Development Operations are currently performing tests to confirm that leakage is isolated to a localized area, but odors will likely continue until the temporary repair work is completed. On the 25th, odors will likely increase as the system is pumped out. Updated information will be shared following the inspection and repair work. Testing continues to suggest that the work to line the sewer system was successful, and we expect the latest results to confirm that.

Your patience is appreciated as we work through the testing and repairs.