In Ontario, workers are protected from eleven “designated substances” that are regulated under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. If a Designated Substance Survey is not duly provided to the Ministry of Labour, a STOP work order can be initiated. Without a DSS, and without proper precautions to protect workers, there could be significant delays in such projects as construction, building, and renovation. Needless to say, this could translate into big investment losses.
The primary purpose of OHSA regulations (The Occupational Health and Safety Act) is to appropriately protect workers from any health or safety hazards while on the job. Part of OHSA requires “project management” to perform a formal assessment to determine whether there are any “designated substances” present on the worksite. Prior to beginning a project, management must prepare a list of “designated substances” that are present. Some are typically hazardous materials, while others are substances of concern.
What are these designated substances?
- Asbestos
- Benzene
- Lead
- Acrylonitrile
- Mercury Coke Oven Emissions
- Silica
- Arsenic
- Isocyanates
- Ethylene Oxide
- Vinyl Chloride
PCBs (generally within the scope of the survey though not part of the named substances)
THE BENEFITS OF A DSS REPORT
- Determining which “designated substances” may be present onsite
- Confirmation of findings through independent, certified lab reports
- Assessing the scope of a contamination in order to take precautions
- Eliminating the potential for management liability and compensation
All Season Inspection adheres to the defined inspection guidelines of OAHI – standards of practice that are highly respected throughout industry. As such, our inspectors are highly trained and qualified to perform DSS Reports.