In a Stag Alert sent to the Fairfield University community at 9:11 a.m. on Monday, the university alerted students and faculty to the finding of mercury in a Bannow Science Center lab. The Rearview confirmed that the room affected was the Physical Chemistry lab in Room 349.

“During renovations of a 3rd-floor Bannow laboratory, a small amount of mercury was found. It has been contained to the lab, and a professional hazardous material waste management company is expected within the hour,” the alert says.

The Department of Public Safety says the mercury finding doesn’t represent a risk to the campus community. The Bannow Science Center will remain open for classes on Monday.

In a statement to The Rearview, Jennifer Anderson, Fairfield’s vice president of marketing and communications, said the small amount of mercury “was safely contained” after its early discovery on Monday.

“The University, in coordination with hazardous material waste management, responded immediately and it will be abated today,” Anderson said. “Fairfield University prioritizes the safety and well-being of its community.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mercury can affect the nervous system and kidneys. While it can be dangerous, the CDC emphasizes that any effects from exposure will depend on “the amount and form of mercury, route, and length of exposure and age.”

At this time, the type or form of mercury found in the lab is unknown.

The Rearview sent two reporters to visit the building at different times in the hour following the Stag Alert and found no DPS presence or crews in the area. A department professor said the issue was being handled and referred to Facilities Management.