FAQs
Do you have the proper authorizations to conduct this type of research?
Yes. SWIFT will be financed by public research funds. To obtain such funds, the quality of the project and its researchers are heavily scrutinized at the federal and provincial level. Funds are awarded on the condition that all ethical, environmental and biosecurity approvals are appropriately obtained.
Are there public health risks from the donors studied at SWIFT?
No. There is negligible risk for the release of infectious or animal-borne diseases into the surrounding environment. As required by law, all donors are subjected to a thorough screening for infectious diseases prior to being placed at SWIFT.
Is there a risk of environmental contamination from the research activities taking place at SWIFT?
No. The activities taking place at SWIFT meet both provincial and federal environmental regulations. We will closely monitor the site's soil and groundwater throughout SWIFT’s operation to confirm no long-term environmental impacts.
Will odours be emitted from the facility and detectable in the surrounding community?
No. Some odours are expected inside the facility due to the nature of the research. The air quality in and around SWIFT will be continually monitored to ensure that any odours remain within the local background levels. The site is located in a remote area that is far from any residential or commercial use. An air quality model has predicted that it is unlikely that a member of the general population will be able to detect odours generated at SWIFT.
Will there be a noticeable increase in insect or animal activity around SWIFT?
No. Studies conducted at other forensic taphonomy facilities with similar climates to Kingsville have shown no observable difference in insect or animal activity near the facility.
Is SWIFT considered a cemetery?
No. SWIFT is a research and educational facility only. The Bereavement Authority of Ontario have confirmed that they do not consider this type of facility to be a cemetery.
Will the public be allowed?
No. We do not provide visits or tours of SWIFT to protect the identity and respect the dignity of our donors. SWIFT is only accessible to authorized personnel.
Will the location be made public?
No. While the community may have knowledge of the general location of SWIFT, the specific location is not publicized to respect the privacy of our donors. The facility will be located in an area that already restricts access to the public.
How is the research communicated?
SWIFT will have a website dedicated to its activities where we will report the types of research we conduct and the results of each project as they are published. The Director (Dr. Shari Forbes) is regularly invited to provide public presentations to share this information with communities.