A Winnipeg man is facing charges after a hazardous material was brought into the Health Sciences Centre Saturday, forcing police to shut down William Avenue for several hours.

An unidentified man carried in a bag with an unknown substance that caused irritation to the eyes and skin, said police.

According to Dana Erickson, COO, Health Sciences Centre Foundation, two staff members needed to be decontaminated and assessed, as well as the man.

No serious injuries were reported by the Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic Service.

Police said a 20-year-old man was arrested and is facing charges of mischief endangering life, possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose and causing a disturbance.

William Avenue was closed from Sherbrook Street to Tecumseh Street for all of Saturday morning while haz-mat services attended to the scene.

Police have not yet said whether the man was targeting the hospital, nor identified the substance.