This situation involves a clear and immediate health risk that has been identified by a qualified external inspector. The presence of mold spores poses documented dangers, particularly to Dr. Nakamura who has a severe respiratory illness, but also to all visitors and staff. The primary ethical obligation here is to protect human health and safety, which must take precedence over institutional reputation, avoiding departmental conflict, or concerns about acquisition legitimacy. While Dr. Nakamura's expertise is valuable, her personal investment in the acquisition and her own health vulnerability may be clouding her judgment. The precautionary principle demands that when credible health risks are identified, we act to prevent harm first, then investigate thoroughly. Quarantining allows for proper scientific testing while fulfilling our duty of care to all stakeholders.