A custodian at the school discovered the leak Jan. 2, which was reported to the Department of Environment and Labour for direction in the current clean-up operation, according to a South Shore Regional School Board release.

In the meantime, the three existing tanks have been replaced with two temporary tanks.

Principal Pat Morash said the odour was strong but “not enough to cause anyone discomfort.” She said it was, at times when people entered the building, no worse than being at a gas station.

She said the board moved quickly to install the new tanks and begin the clean-up operation.

“They were quick, efficient and looked after the matter.”

The board has contracted Jacques Whitford Limited to direct the clean-up and tests.

“Results of those tests will determine if excavation or other further remediation is necessary.”

Current excavations, directed by Jacques Whitford, will remove two to three truckloads of potentially contaminated soil. A vacuum truck will then be used to remove water from the excavation hole for an assessment by a Jacques Whitford inspector.

Board Communications Officer, Paul Shields said, “Once the inspector is satisfied that any contamination has been removed, they will direct the in-filling of the excavation hole with clean fill. The soil we are removing today will be taken, under permit, to the Queens County landfill.”

He added, “The Department of Environment and Labour are satisfied with the steps we are taking and the process we are following, and we are in regular contact with them.”