ORANJESTAD, Aruba – The DIMAS Air Quality Report has been completed following an investigation into possible mold and air-quality problems at the immigration department’s building after several employees became ill during working hours a few weeks ago.
Minister of Justice Arthur Dowers, who is responsible for immigration policy, recently received the final report containing the results of the investigation carried out inside the DIMAS building.
The investigation was launched after several employees reportedly became unwell on the same day while at work. According to the information provided, workers had noticed a strong gas-like odor inside the building before some employees began feeling sick.
Because of the seriousness of the situation and concerns for the health and safety of both staff members and visitors, authorities decided to evacuate the building immediately while a more detailed investigation was arranged.
During the days that followed, the Department of Public Health and PURE Indoor Air Quality Solutions conducted several inspections and tests throughout the building.
The investigation included sampling for the possible presence of mold, measurements of indoor air quality, and a technical inspection of the building’s central air-conditioning system.
According to the DIMAS Air Quality Report, the results of the tests fell within normal standards. Based on the findings presented to Minister Dowers, investigators did not identify conditions indicating that the building currently presents a health risk to employees working inside or to members of the public visiting DIMAS.
The findings provide reassurance following the earlier incident, which had raised concerns among workers and the wider community about possible exposure to mold or other substances inside the building.
Minister Dowers said the outcome of the investigation is important because it provides both DIMAS employees and the public with greater clarity about the conditions inside the facility.
Although the investigation did not identify an immediate health risk, the report also contains recommendations aimed at improving the indoor environment.
Among the main recommendations are measures to improve ventilation and air circulation throughout the building.
Minister Dowers indicated that these recommendations will receive the necessary attention. He noted that several government buildings across Aruba operate with air-conditioning and ventilation systems that have been in use for many years.
According to the minister, older systems should gradually be modernized and replaced with newer and more efficient equipment where necessary.
Improving ventilation can help maintain better indoor air circulation and may also contribute to a more comfortable working environment for both employees and visitors.
The investigation into the DIMAS building demonstrates the importance of responding quickly when employees report unusual odors, illness, or other possible environmental concerns in the workplace.
Authorities initially chose to evacuate the building as a precaution until testing could determine whether there was a broader safety problem.
With the DIMAS Air Quality Report now completed, the available test results indicate that conditions are within normal levels and that no immediate risk has been identified.
However, officials will continue considering the recommendations contained in the report, particularly those involving ventilation and modernization of the building’s air systems.
Minister Dowers emphasized that ensuring safe and appropriate working conditions remains important for government personnel as well as members of the public who depend on services provided at DIMAS.
