Two indoor pools in Toronto closed after staff walked out due to extreme heat: union
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TORONTO – A union representing Toronto workers says unbearable heat forced the closure of two indoor pools Tuesday, and they remain closed this morning.
CUPE Local 79 says indoor humidex ratings were recorded between 40 and 45 C this week at Main Square Community Recreation Centre and Birchmount Community Centre pools.
The union says aquatic staff members refused to work under those conditions, which arose as the city was under a multi-day heat warning.
The union says humidex that high requires more staff and the presence of medics, but medical staff were not on site when the humidex climbed higher than 45 C.
The City of Toronto says it is working to address issues with dehumidification systems.
It says the Main Square pool should reopen today, while the Birchmount pool is expected to reopen on Thursday.
The city says it is “actively working with the union” to resolve issues and will continue to enforce measures from its heat relief strategy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 30, 2025.