I work for a fast fashion company in Canada. A week ago there was a roof renovation. There was toxic roof tar fumes circulating in the office. Many people complained about their lungs hurting, getting skin rashes, headaches, wanting to vomit, etc. Many people coughing. Upper management is doing fine as they are in secluded areas with closed doors. There are many at risk and elderly people working in the company. Management has not sent any emails about the situation, yet the same management has previously sent mass emails about random stuff, such as a copy pasted and sad “Happy International Women's Day” to the majority of underpaid women working there.
After several complaints, HR said we could go home if we want, but no one left. No team leaders left so anyone lower felt too bad about leaving. This company has the tendency to fire people on a whim and has a general culture of fear, not saying hello, cliques, fast turnover and non-accountability. We were just there with 2-3 masks trying to breathe.