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Generators will be used to temporarily power the communications systems, which is used to keep in touch with overseas military missions.

The workers will be issued with headlamps and batteries so they can find their way around the darkened building. A floodlight will be used to illuminate one area of the communications centre.

“Without electricity, the fire alarms and suppression system will not work but it is also nearly impossible there will be an electrical fire,” a Canadian Forces officer told staff in an email.

The workers on the 11th floor won’t have access to water or toilets during the shutdown because of low water pressure.

They will be given bottled water. Toilets up to the sixth floor of the building will continue to function.

“This is absolutely ridiculous,” said John MacLennan, national president of the Union of National Defence Employees. “Everything about this violates every health and safety law there is.”

The union, which represents some of the workers has complained to DND health and safety officials and the Canadian Forces Fire Marshall.

In the email, the Canadian Forces noted, “The work environment conditions will be monitored by management as reported by employees. If conditions become unsafe, the area will be evacuated.”

Canadian Forces spokeswoman Lieutenant Commander Lora Collier said, “Necessary measures will be in place throughout to mitigate the risk associated with power interruptions occurring during the maintenance timeframe.”