Sandman Hotel Operator Fined $620K for Asbestos Violations

Williams Lake Hotel Renovation Triggers Stop-Work Order

A WorkSafeBC inspection at the Sandman Hotel in Williams Lake revealed visible mould on the walls, absent decontamination stations, and workers lacking proper protective gear, with only a single employee wearing a disposable dust mask. According to the regulatory report, a pre-construction audit confirmed that Northland Properties knew asbestos was present in the building’s drywall compound and that the paint contained lead. Regulators stated that these severe health risks were never communicated to the staff.

The inspection prompted WorkSafeBC to slap an immediate stop-work order on the property. Inspectors warned that anyone entering the zone likely inhaled asbestos fibres and other hazardous materials. Furthermore, investigators noted that foot traffic and contaminated clothing likely tracked hazardous debris across other areas of the hotel interior.

Missing Safety Protocols and Prior Regulatory Infractions

During the compliance review, an official examined the Northland Construction – Health and Safety Program and found zero references to asbestos or hazardous materials. WorkSafeBC concluded that the employer failed to establish due diligence. The report highlights that Northland had previously fallen afoul of asbestos regulations over a dozen times across multiple British Columbia locations, including sites in Kelowna, Richmond, Revelstoke, and Vancouver’s Georgia, Davie, and Burrard streets.

“This penalty is appropriate for this employer; the employer has received many prior orders relating to asbestos management and also a warning letter and does not seem to have taken any substantive, sustained action to prevent future worker exposure and future violations,” the report states. Vancouver-based Northland Properties operates major brands like Denny’s Canada, Grouse Mountain Resort and Chop Steakhouse, and owns the NHL’s Dallas Stars under CEO Tom Gaglardi.

Company Response and Appeal Plans

A spokesperson for Northland Properties defended the hospitality giant in a written statement, asserting that no hotel guests were exposed to asbestos or hazardous materials. The firm confirmed it will appeal the $624,051.48 penalty issued by WorkSafeBC. “The health and safety of all our staff and guests has always been and remains at the forefront of all the work that we do,” the spokesperson said, adding that the underlying issues identified by inspectors were promptly remedied.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was the Sandman Hotel in Williams Lake issued a stop-work order?

WorkSafeBC issued the stop-work order in December 2025 after an inspection revealed workers were exposed to asbestos and lead without proper safety gear, training, or decontamination measures.

What is the total penalty amount issued to Northland Properties?

B.C.’s workplace regulator penalized Northland Properties $624,051.48 following the safety violations found at the Williams Lake hotel.

Has the company faced similar violations in the past?

Yes. According to WorkSafeBC documents, the operator had previously violated asbestos regulations over a dozen times across multiple B.C. locations, including Kelowna, Richmond, Revelstoke, and Vancouver.

How is Northland Properties responding to the penalty?

A company spokesperson stated that no guests were exposed, that identified issues were quickly fixed, and that Northland plans to appeal the WorkSafeBC penalty.