Biohazardous materials were found inside a laboratory at Dalhousie University's medical school, a school spokesperson confirmed Monday night.

"We would say that there is no immediate risk to the general public based on all the information that we know," said Brian Leadbetter, director of communications at Dalhousie University.

Leadbetter described the materials as being old, but did not elaborate. When asked what kind of biohazardous material it was, he said it was still in the process being identified. He says experts are on site at the school investigating.

"Dalhousie has been in contact with the appropriate government agencies, including the Chief Public Health Officer, the Public Health Agency of Canada, Halifax Regional Police and RCMP to ensure we're following proper protocols for the removal and disposal of these materials," he said.

Leadbetter says the school will close its doors at 9 p.m. Monday night as a precaution.