Health and Safety A-Z
Topic: Designated substances
Summary:
Ontario has created specific requirements for work involving any one of eleven hazardous materials known as “designated” substances. Requirements include a written assessment of exposure and a review of that assessment by the Joint Health and Safety Committee. Additional requirements apply to designated substances found in building materials; in most cases a designated substance assessment must be completed and provided to the contractor(s) before a demolition or renovation project can begin.
The 11 designated substances are: Acrylonitrile, arsenic, asbestos, benzene, coke oven emissions, ethylene oxide, isocyanates, lead, mercury, silica, and vinyl chloride.
At Trent, a Designated Substances Assessment form is required for work with designated substance(s) not related to construction or building materials. Forms can be obtained from Risk Management, Science Facilities or the H&S Portal. Completed forms should be forwarded to Risk Management for review by the Joint Health and Safety Committee.
Designated substance assessments involving building-related projects are normally arranged through the Project Management Office, Physical Resources Department.
For more information see:
Ministry of Labour, Guide to the Occupational Health and Safety Act, Part IV, Toxic Substances
Ont. Reg. 490/09 – Designated Substances
Additional Resources:
The Designated Substances Assessment Form found on the H&S portal.
Last Revised: December 9, 2015