Ventilation

[OHS Regs., s.xx] Follow these links to related legislation.

Highlighted words reveal definitions when selected.

The air quality in our workplace can vary and have a significant impact on our health and productivity. Maintaining good air quality involves controlling sources of airborne hazards and, where these sources cannot be controlled, providing sufficient ventilation to prevent them from increasing to hazardous levels.

Ventilation may be natural or mechanical. Mechanical ventilation systems introduces large quantities of clean outdoor air into the work area to dilute airborne hazards (e.g., dilution ventilation) or captures airborne hazards at, or near, the point where they are generated (e.g., local exhaust).

Employer Responsibilities

Employers must:

  • Make sure air in the workplace is clean and adequate for the number of workers and work processes. [OHS Regs., s. 45(1)]
  • Make sure ventilation systems:[OHS Regs., s. 45(1)] [OHS Regs., s. 45(11)]
    • Meet the standards set by ASHRAE and ACGIH.
    • Meet the requirements of the Canadian Electrical Code.
    • Have electrical and mechanical components designed to control all potential ignition sources.
  • Provide and maintain a ventilation system(s) where a work process may give off airborne hazards (e.g., dust, fumes, fibres, bioaerosols, mists, vapours and gases) that could be harmful or offensive to workers. [OHS Regs., s. 45(2)]
  • Install a local exhaust system as near as possible to the source of an airborne hazard to prevent it from being inhaled by a worker and spreading throughout the workplace. [OHS Regs., s. 45(3)]
  • Make sure a local exhaust system vents airborne hazards outdoors, and prevents them from re-entering the workplace. [OHS Regs., s. 45(4)]
  • Maintain all parts of a ventilation system, including cleaning the louvers regularly and making sure that all openings (e.g., exhaust vents and supply diffusers) are clean and unobstructed. [OHS Regs., s. 45(5)]
  • Make sure a less hazardous work process is used, where possible. [OHS Regs., s. 45(10)]
  • Keep the amount of an airborne hazard as low as possible, and monitor the quality of the air where a hazardous substance could make the air dangerous to the health and safety of workers. [OHS Regs., s. 42(1)] [OHS Regs., s. 42(7)(a)] [OHS Regs., s. 45(10)]
  • Make sure hazardous substances are used, stored, and handled only when all parts of WHMIS have been met, including labels, identifiers, safety data sheets (SDS), and worker education and training. Where WHMIS requirements are not met, an employer is only permitted to store a hazardous substance at the workplace while they are actively looking for the required information. [WHMIS Regs., s. 4]
  • Conduct a risk assessment and develop written rescue and evacuation procedures where employees use, store, or handle hazardous substances at a work site. Evacuation or rescue may be necessary if the air in a work area becomes unsafe to breath or equipment like respirators become unable to protect a worker from over exposure to a hazard. [OHS Regs., s. 38]

Inspecting and maintaining ventilation systems

Employers, contractors and owners of a mechanical ventilation system, including humidifiers, must:

  • Construct and maintain the system to minimize the growth and spread of micro-organisms (e.g., moulds, bacteria, and viruses), insects and mites. Where possible equip the system with access points for cleaning and inspection. [OHS Regs., s. 45(9)(a)]
  • Make sure qualified workers are employed to inspect and maintain the ventilation system including, cleaning louvers and cleaning or replacing filters. Filters must be changed as regularly as necessary to maintain airborne hazards below ACGIH TLVs and to maintain the appropriate number of air changes per hour. [OHS Regs., s. 45(9)(b)]
  • Make sure all records of inspections, maintenance and cleaning are completed by qualified workers and are made available to the OHS Committee, WHS Representative, or Designate, and an OHS Officer. [OHS Regs., s. 45(9)(c)]
  • Make sure that ventilating fans are located so that airborne hazards do not recirculate. For example, keeping an adequate distance between supply and exhaust vents so that exhaust is not captured by the supply. [OHS Regs., s. 45(9)(d)]
  • Make sure that the ventilation supply air intake is free from sources of contamination (e.g., exhaust from an idling vehicle). [OHS Regs., s. 45(5)(c)]
  • Measure air volume at appropriate intervals to comply with ASHRAE, ACGIH, or other standards, as required. [OHS Regs., s. 45(9)(e)]

Use of internal combustion engines indoors or in an enclosed area

Employers must:

  • Make sure that exhaust from an internal combustion engine is vented to the outdoors, if possible. [OHS Regs., s. 45(6)]
  • Properly service and maintain internal combustion engines. [OHS Regs., s. 45(7)]
  • Make sure that hazardous exhaust components are maintained below criteria established by the ACGIH Ventilation Manual, where they exist. [OHS Regs., s. 45(7)(a)] This measurement can be accomplished by performing a tailpipe exhaust test every 12 months and after major engine repair.
  • Assess worker exposure to hazardous exhaust components (e.g., carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide). [OHS Regs., s. 45(7)(b)]
  • Install and maintain exhaust gas scrubbers, catalytic converters or other engineering controls where a worker may be overexposed to hazardous exhaust components. [OHS Regs., s. 45(8)]

Worker education and training

Employers must:

Substance specific legislation

Employer must also follow specific regulations related to:

Worker Responsibilities

Workers must:

Related Topics

Ventilation

Ventilation is the movement of air in a closed space or system. It often involves the replacement of indoor air with fresh air taken from outside.

Natural ventilation

Air movement resulting from wind or convection currents moving through open doors, loading bay doors, windows, hatches, etc.

Mechanical ventilation

Uses a mechanical device(s) such as a fan to push or pull air.

ASHRAE

ASHRAE, founded in 1894, is a global society advancing human well-being through sustainable technology for the built environment. The Society and its members focus on building systems, energy efficiency, indoor air quality, refrigeration and sustainability within the industry. Through research, standards writing, publishing and continuing education, ASHRAE shapes tomorrow’s built environment today. ASHRAE was formed as the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers by the merger in 1959 of American Society of Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHAE) founded in 1894 and The American Society of Refrigerating Engineers (ASRE) founded in 1904.

https://www.ashrae.org/

ACGIH (American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists)

The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) is a scientific organization that develops occupational exposure limits for chemical and physical hazards. These limits can be found in their TLVs® and BEIs® book.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, acceptable occupational exposure limits are established by the ACGIH.

Canadian Electrical code

The Canadian Electrical Code, Part I has been developed and updated to help better protect electrical workers and promote improved consistency in electrical installations across the country. It can be purchased at
https://www.csagroup.org/store/product/CSA%20C22.1%3A21/

WHMIS

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is a standardized system which includes rules for hazard classification, labelling, safety data sheets (SDSs), and worker education and training. It provides workers with important health and safety information about hazardous substances in the workplace.

Safety Data Sheet

A safety data sheet (SDS) provided by a supplier that contains information required by the Hazardous Products Act (Canada), including potential hazards of a hazardous substance, instructions on how to work safely with it, and actions to take in an emergency. A SDS should not be confused with the label; as it contains much more detailed information.
Before using a hazardous product, it's essential to conduct a risk assessment by reading and fully understanding the SDS.[WHMIS Regs., s. 2(s]

Qualified person

A person who is knowledgeable of the work, the hazards involved and the means to control the hazards, by reason of education, training, experience or a combination of them. [OHS Regs., s.2(h) and (w)]

OHS Officer

An occupational health and safety officer appointed under this Act and includes a medical practitioner providing services under section 20 while he or she is providing those services. [OHS Act, s. 2(i)]

Supplier labels

A label provided by a supplier that contains information required by the Canadian Hazardous Products Act. [WHMIS Regs., s. 2(u)]

Workplace label

A label which includes:
A product identifier which is identical to that found on the safety data sheet of the corresponding hazardous product; Information for the safe handling of the hazardous product which is conveyed in a manner appropriate to the workplace; and That a safety data sheet for the hazardous product, where one has been obtained from a supplier or prepared by the employer, is available. [WHMIS Regs., s. 2(x)]

OHS committee

Where 10 or more workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall establish an occupational health and safety committee to monitor the health, safety and welfare of the workers employed at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 37]
A committee shall consist of 2 to 12 persons. Where the employer and workers cannot agree on the size of the committee, the minister may establish its size. [OHS Act, s. 38]
At least half of the members are to be persons representing the workers who are not connected with the management. The persons representing the workers are to be elected by other workers or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the union of which the workers are members. [OHS Act, s. 38]
The employer shall appoint sufficient employer representatives to ensure that the committee may function. [OHS Act, s. 38]
The employer and worker members of a committee shall elect a co-chair person from their respective groups. [OHS Act, s. 38]
The employer shall post the names of the committee members in a prominent place at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 38]
A committee:
  • Shall seek to identify aspects of the workplace that may be unhealthy or unsafe;
  • Shall participate in a workplace inspection that an employer is required by the regulations to conduct;
  • May make recommendations to principal contractors, employers, workers, self-employed persons and the assistant deputy minister or an officer for the enforcement of standards to protect the health, safety and welfare of workers at the workplace;
  • Shall receive complaints from workers as to their concerns about the health and safety of the workplace and their welfare;
  • Shall establish and promote health and safety educational programs for workers;
  • Shall maintain records as to the receipt and disposition of complaints received from workers;
  • Shall co-operate with the assistant deputy minister or an officer who is exercising his or her duties under the act; and
  • Shall perform those other duties and follow those procedures that may be prescribed by the regulations. [OHS Act, s. 39]
Meetings of a committee shall take place during regular working hours at least once every 3 months and a worker is not to suffer loss of pay or other benefits while engaged in a meeting of a committee. [OHS Act, s. 40]

Worker Health and Safety Representative

Where less than 10 workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall ensure that a worker not connected with the management of the workplace is designated as the worker health and safety representative to monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace.
[OHS Act, s. 41]
The worker health and safety representative is to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the labour union of which the workers are members. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The employer shall post the name of the worker health and safety representative in a prominent place at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 43]
A worker health and safety representative has the same duties as those imposed upon a committee where that is reasonably practicable. [OHS Act, s. 44]
A worker health and safety representative shall consult with his or her employer while performing his or her duties. [OHS Act, s. 44]

Workplace Health and Safety Designate

Where less than 6 persons are engaged at a workplace and the designation of a worker health and safety representative is impracticable, the employer may designate a workplace health and safety designate to monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The workplace health and safety designate shall be appointed by the employer. The workplace health and safety designate may be either a worker connected with the management of the workplace; or the employer, if the designation of a worker connected with the management of the workplace is not practicable. [OHS Act, s. 42]
If the assistant deputy minister or an officer is of the opinion that a workplace health and safety designate cannot adequately monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace, the assistant deputy minister or officer shall order, in writing, that a worker health and safety representative be designated. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The employer shall provide and pay for training for the workplace health and safety designate. The training provided shall meet the requirements that the Workplace Health and Safety Compensation Commission may set. An employer shall compensate a worker for participating in training as if the training were regular work. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The workplace health and safety designate shall participate in the training provided. [OHS Act, s. 42]
The employer shall post the name of the worker health and safety designate in a prominent place at the workplace. [OHS Act, s. 43]
A worker health and safety designate has the same duties as those imposed upon a committee where that is reasonably practicable. [OHS Act, s. 44]
A worker health and safety designate, where the workplace health and safety designate is not the employer, shall consult with his or her employer while performing his or her duties. Where the workplace health and safety designate is the employer, he or she shall consult with the workers while performing his or her duties. [OHS Act, s. 44]

Personal protective equipment

Any equipment or device which protects a worker's body from injury, illness or death. PPE acts as a barrier to protect the worker from the hazard.
PPE should only be used:
  • Where other controls are not available or adequate.
  • As a short-term measure before controls are implemented.
  • During activities such as maintenance, clean up, and repair where other controls are not feasible or effective.
  • During emergency situations.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ACT
R.S.N.L. 1990, c. O-3

Section 2 Definitions

2. In this Act

(a) "assistant deputy minister" means an assistant deputy minister appointed under section 9 of the Executive Council Act for the proper conduct of this Act;

(b) "board" means the Labour Relations Board referred to in the Labour Relations Act;

(c) "committee" means an occupational health and safety committee referred to in this Act;

(d) "council" means the Occupational Health and Safety Council referred to in this Act;

(e) "division" means the Occupational Health and Safety Division;

(f) "employer" means a person who employs 1 or more workers;

(g) "minister" means the minister appointed under the Executive Council Act to administer this Act;

(h) "occupation" means employment prescribed by the regulations as an occupation;

(i) "officer" means an occupational health and safety officer appointed under this Act and includes a medical practitioner providing services under section 20 while he or she is providing those services;

(j) "principal contractor" means the person primarily responsible for the carrying out of a project and includes the person who owns the thing in respect of which the project is being carried out;

(k) "self-employed person" means a person who is engaged in an occupation on his or her own behalf;

(k.1) "supervisor" means a person authorized or designated by an employer to exercise direction and control over workers of the employer;

(l) "supplier" means a person who rents or leases tools, appliances or equipment to be used by a worker;

(m) "worker" means a person engaged in an occupation; and

(n) "workplace" means a place where a worker or self-employed person is engaged in an occupation and includes a vehicle or mobile equipment used by a worker in an occupation.

[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 1; 2006, c. 16, s. 1; 2009, c. 19, s. 1]

Section 6 Workers' general duty

6. A worker, while at work, shall take reasonable care to protect his or her own health and safety and that of workers and other persons at or near the workplace.

Section 7 Specific duties of workers

7. A worker

(a) shall co-operate with his or her employer and with other workers in the workplace to protect

(i) his or her own health and safety,

(ii) the health and safety of other workers engaged in the work of the employer,

(iii) the health and safety of other workers or persons not engaged in the work of the employer but present at or near the workplace;

(a.1) shall use devices and equipment provided for his or her protection in accordance with the instructions for use and training provided with respect to the devices and equipment;

(b) shall consult and co-operate with the occupational health and safety committee, the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate at the workplace; and

(c) shall co-operate with a person exercising a duty imposed by this Act or regulations.

[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 3; 2001, c. 10, s. 26; 2004, c. 52, s. 2]

Section 37 Committees

37. Where 10 or more workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall establish an occupational health and safety committee to monitor the health, safety and welfare of the workers employed at the workplace.

[S.N.L. 1999, c. 28, s. 9]

Section 38 Membership of committees

38. (1) A committee shall consist of the number of persons that may be agreed to by the employer and the workers but shall not be less than 2 nor more than 12 persons.

(2) At least half of the members of a committee are to be persons representing the workers at the workplace who are not connected with the management of the workplace.

(3) The persons representing the workers on the committee are to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the union of which the workers are members.

(4) Where the employer and workers cannot agree on the size of the committee, the minister may establish its size.

(5) The employer shall appoint sufficient employer representatives to ensure that the committee may function.

(6) The employer and worker members of a committee shall elect a co- chairperson from their respective groups.

(7) The employer shall post the names of the committee members in a prominent place at the workplace.

Section 39 Duties of committees

39. A committee established under section 37

(a) shall seek to identify aspects of the workplace that may be unhealthy or unsafe;

(a.1) shall participate in a workplace inspection that an employer is required by the regulations to conduct;

(b) may make recommendations to principal contractors, employers, workers, self-employed persons and the assistant deputy minister or an officer for the enforcement of standards to protect the health, safety and welfare of workers at the workplace;

(c) shall receive complaints from workers as to their concerns about the health and safety of the workplace and their welfare;

(d) shall establish and promote health and safety educational programs for workers;

(e) shall maintain records as to the receipt and disposition of complaints received from workers under paragraph (c);

(f) shall co-operate with the assistant deputy minister or an officer who is exercising his or her duties under the Act; and

(g) shall perform those other duties and follow those procedures that may be prescribed by the regulations.

[S.N.L. 2001, c. 10, s. 29]

Section 40 Meetings of committee

40. Meetings of a committee shall take place during regular working hours at least once every 3 months and a worker is not to suffer loss of pay or other benefits while engaged in a meeting of a committee.

Section 41 Worker representative

41. (1) Where less than 10 workers are employed at a workplace, the employer shall ensure that a worker not connected with the management of the workplace is designated as the worker health and safety representative to monitor the health, safety and welfare of workers employed at the workplace.

(2) The employer shall provide and pay for training for the worker health and safety representative.

(3) The training provided under subsection (2) shall meet the requirements the Workplace Health Safety and Compensation Commission may set.

(4) The worker health and safety representative shall participate in the training provided under this section.

(5) An employer shall compensate a worker for participating in training under this section as if the training were regular work.

[S.N.L. 2001, c. 10, s. 30; 2004, c. 47, s. 27]

Section 42 Election of representative

42. The worker health and safety representative is to be elected by other workers at the workplace or appointed in accordance with the constitution of the labour union of which the workers are members.

Section 43 Posting name

43. The employer shall post the name of the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate in a prominent place at the workplace.

[S.N.L. 2004, c. 52, s. 9]

Section 44 Duties of representative

44. (1) A worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate has the same duties as those imposed upon a committee under section 39, where that is reasonably practicable.

(2) A worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate, where the workplace health and safety designate is not the employer, shall consult with his or her employer while performing his or her duties under subsection (1).

(3) Where the workplace health and safety designate is the employer, he or she shall consult with the workers while performing his or her duties under subsection (1).

[S.N.L. 2004, c. 52, s. 10]

Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012
N.L.R. 5/12

Part I GENERAL

Section 2 Interpretation

2. (1) In these regulations

(a) "accident" includes

(i) an event occasioned by a physical or natural cause, or

(ii) disablement arising out of and in the course of employment;

(b) "ACGIH" means the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists;

(c) "Act" means the Occupational Health and Safety Act ;

(d) "administrative controls" means the provision, use and scheduling of work activities and resources in the workplace, including planning, organizing, staffing and coordinating, for the purpose of controlling risk;

(e) "ASHRAE" means the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers;

(f) "authorized" means, in reference to a person, a qualified person designated by an employer to carry out specific functions;

(g) "commission" means the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Commission continued under the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act, 2022 ;

(h) "competent" means a person who is

(i) qualified because of that person's knowledge, training and experience to do the assigned work in a manner that ensures the health and safety of every person in the workplace, and

(ii) knowledgeable about the provisions of the Act and these regulations that apply to the assigned work, and about potential or actual danger to health or safety associated with the assigned work;

(i) "construction" means building, erection, excavation, alteration, repair, renovation, dismantling, demolition, structural maintenance, painting, moving, land clearing, earth moving, grading, street and highway building, concreting, equipment installation and alteration and the structural installation of construction components and materials in any form or for any purpose, and work in connection with it;

(j) "CSA" means the Canadian Standards Association;

(k) "engineering controls" means the physical arrangement, design or alteration of workstations, equipment, materials, production facilities or other aspects of the physical work environment, for the purpose of controlling risk;

(l) "hazardous health occupation" means an occupation from which an occupational disease may arise;

(m) "hot work" means work which involves burning, welding, cutting, grinding, using fire or spark producing tools or other work that produces a source of ignition;

(n) "injury" means

(i) an injury as a result of a chance event occasioned by a physical or natural cause, (ii) an injury as a result of wilful and intentional act, not being the act of the worker, (iii) disablement, (iv) occupational disease, or (v) death as a result of an injury arising out of and in the course of employment and includes a recurrence of an injury and an aggravation of a pre-existing condition but does not include stress other than stress that is an acute reaction to a sudden and unexpected traumatic event;

(o) "ISO" means the International Organization for Standardization;

(p) "mine" means mine as defined in the Mining Act ;

(q) "occupation" means an employment, business, calling or pursuit but does not include an endeavour that is not included in one of the classes of occupations in the current National Occupational Classification List developed by the Department of Human Resources and Social Development Canada in collaboration with Statistics Canada;

(r) "occupational disease" means a disease prescribed by regulations under the Workplace Health, Safety and Compensation Act and another disease peculiar to or characteristic of a particular industrial process, trade or occupation;

(s) "occupational health service" means a service established in or near a workplace to maintain and promote the physical and mental well-being of workers and may include personnel, equipment, transportation, supplies and facilities;

(t) "plant" means buildings, equipment and facilities where a worker or self-employed person is engaged in an occupation;

(u) "professional engineer" means a person who holds a certificate of registration to engage in the practice of engineering under the Engineers and Geoscientists Act;

(v) "proof test" means a test applied to a product to determine material or manufacturing defects;

(w) "qualified" means being knowledgeable of the work, the hazards involved and the means to control the hazards, by reason of education, training, experience or a combination of them;

(x) "TLV" means the documentation of threshold limit values for chemical substances and physical agents in the work environment published annually or more frequently by the ACGIH; and

(y) "work platform" means an elevated or suspended temporary work base for workers.

(2) In these regulations, a reference to a code or guideline, unless otherwise stated, includes amendments to that code or guideline and a reference shall be presumed to be a reference to the most current code or guideline.

(3) Where there is a conflict between a standard established by these regulations or a code or standard adopted by these regulations, the more stringent standard applies.

[S.N.L. 2022, c. W-11.1, s. 168]

Part III GENERAL DUTIES

Section 14 General duties of employers

14. (1) An employer shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that all buildings, structures, whether permanent or temporary, excavation, machinery, workstations, places of employment and equipment are capable of withstanding the stresses likely to be imposed upon them and of safely performing the functions for which they are used or intended.

(2) An employer shall ensure that necessary protective clothing and devices are used for the health and safety of the employer’s workers.

(3) The employer shall ensure that safe work procedures are followed at all workplaces.

(4) An employer shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that work procedures promote the safe interaction of workers and their work environment to minimize the potential for injury.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 3]

Section 17 General duties of workers

17. (1) A worker shall make proper use of all necessary safeguards, protective clothing, safety devices, lifting devices or aids, and appliances

(a) designated and provided for the worker’s protection by the employer; or

(b) required under these regulations to be used or worn by a worker.

(2) A worker shall follow the safe work procedure in which the worker has been instructed.

(3) A worker shall immediately report a hazardous work condition that may come to the worker’s attention to the employer or supervisor.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 4]

Part V GENERAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Section 38 Emergency plan risk assessment

38. (1) An employer shall conduct a risk assessment in a workplace in which a need to rescue or evacuate workers may arise.

(2) Where the risk assessment required by subsection (1) shows a need for evacuation or rescue, appropriate written procedures shall be developed and implemented and a worker assigned to coordinate their implementation.

(3) Written rescue and evacuation procedures are required for but not limited to

(a) work at high angles;

(b) work in confined spaces or where there is a risk of entrapment;

(c) work with hazardous substances;

(d) underground work;

(e) work in close proximity to power lines;

(f) work on or over water; and

(g) workplaces where there are persons who require physical assistance to be moved.

(4) Where a workplace is a low risk workplace in the opinion of an employer, the employer shall post information about escape routes and conduct emergency drills the employer considers appropriate.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 10]

Part VI OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Section 42 Hazardous substances

42. (1) An employer shall monitor the use or presence of substances at the workplace that may be hazardous to the health and safety of workers.

(2) In accordance with subsection (1), an employer shall implement a chemical and biological control program commensurate with the associated risks.

(3) In accordance with subsection (1), an employer shall eliminate hazardous substances from the workplace and where this is not practicable substitute a less hazardous substance.

(4) Where hazardous substances exist, an employer shall employ engineering and administrative controls to ensure their safe use.

(5) An employer shall ensure that a substance produced, used or handled at a workplace which by reason of toxicity, flammability or reactivity creates a risk to the health or safety of workers is controlled in accordance with the Safety Data Sheet or manufacturer's specifications.

(6) Where the minister determines that the use or presence of a hazardous substance at a place of employment may be injurious to the health of workers, the minister may inquire into the substance and may prohibit, restrict or modify the use of the substance until a time that an employer establishes to the minister that its use or presence is not injurious to the health of workers.

(7) An employer shall ensure that

(a) atmospheric contamination of the workplace by hazardous substances is kept as low as is reasonably practicable;

(b) a worker is informed of the nature and degree of health effects of the hazardous substances to which the worker is exposed;

(c) exposure of a worker to hazardous substances is as minimal as is reasonably practicable, and where a threshold limit value has been established by the ACGIH, exposure shall not exceed the threshold limit value;

(d) except as otherwise determined by the division, a worker is not exposed to a substance that exceeds the ceiling limit, short-term exposure limit or 8-hour TWA (time weighted average) limit prescribed by ACGIH; and

(e) where a substance referred to in paragraph (d) has an 8-hour TWA limit, a worker's exposure to the substance does not exceed

(i) 3 times the 8-hour TWA limit for more than a total of 30 minutes during the work period, and

(ii) 5 times the 8-hour TWA limit.

(8) Where extended work periods exist where the work period is more than 8 hours in a 24 hour day, the 8 hour exposure shall be adjusted accordingly as outlined in the ACGIH "Threshold Limit Values (TLVs)" Manual.

(9) Adjustment of TLVs, as required, shall be done in consultation with the occupational health and safety committee, the worker health and safety representative or the workplace health and safety designate, as appropriate.

(10) Where a worker is exposed to a substance which is designated as a reproductive toxin or a sensitizer, an employer shall develop policy and procedures appropriate to the risk, which may include protective reassignment.

(11) Where workers may be exposed to contact with chemicals harmful to the skin, facilities shall be available for the worker to effectively cleanse the contaminated body areas, including, where corrosive chemicals are involved, emergency water baths, showers, jump tanks, eyewash facilities or other effective means of treatment.

(12) The policy and procedures required by subsection (10) shall include

(a) informing workers about the reproductive toxin and identifying ways to minimize exposure to the toxin for a worker who has advised the employer of pregnancy or intent to conceive a child; and

(b) identifying ways to eliminate exposure to a sensitizer for a worker who is or may become sensitized to that substance.

(13) Solvents, oils, greases, paints or other flammable substances shall be cleaned up by using an approved non-combustible grease and oil absorbent which shall be placed in covered metal containers before disposal.

(14) Containers referred to in subsection (13) shall not be stored in work areas.

[S.N.L. 2019, c. 8, s. 20]

Section 45 Ventilation

45. (1) An employer shall ensure that

(a) there is appropriate circulation of clean and wholesome air;

(b) there is adequate ventilation; and

(c) impurities are made harmless and inoffensive

in a workplace in accordance with standards established by ASHRAE and ACGIH.

(2) Where a work or process gives off dust, fumes, vapour, mist or other impurity of a kind and quantity liable to be injurious or offensive to a worker, an employer shall provide, maintain and ensure the proper use of a ventilation system sufficient to protect the worker against inhalation of impurities and to prevent impurities accumulating in the work space.

(3) Where practicable, local exhaust ventilation shall be installed and maintained near to the point of origin of an impurity to prevent it entering the air of the workplace and the breathing zone of its workers.

(4) Impurities removed under subsections (2) and (3) shall be exhausted clear of a workplace and prevented from entering a workplace.

(5) An employer shall ensure that,

(a) all parts of a ventilation system are maintained;

(b) louvers are cleaned regularly; and

(c) ventilation openings are free of obstruction and sources of contamination.

(6) Where possible, exhaust from an internal combustion engine operated indoors shall be vented to the outdoors.

(7) Where mobile equipment powered by an internal combustion engine is operated indoors or in an enclosed work area

(a) the engine shall be adequately serviced and maintained to minimize the concentration of air contaminants in the exhaust to the applicable ACGIH Standards, and

(b) the work area shall be assessed to determine the potential for exposure of workers to harmful levels of exhaust components.

(8) Where a worker is or may be exposed to an exhaust gas component in concentrations exceeding the applicable exposure limits, exhaust gas scrubbers, catalytic converters, or other engineering controls shall be installed.

(9) An employer, contractor or owner shall ensure that

(a) the mechanical ventilation system

(i) including humidification equipment, is constructed and maintained to minimize the growth and dissemination of micro-organisms, insects and mites through the ventilation system, and

(ii) where reasonably practicable, is readily accessible for cleaning and inspection;

(b) a qualified person inspects and maintains all parts of a mechanical ventilation system, cleans all louvers and replaces or adequately cleans all filters at a frequency that is sufficient to protect the health and safety of workers;

(c) a record of all inspections, maintenance and cleaning of the mechanical ventilation system is

(i) completed by a qualified person who performs the work, and

(ii) readily available for examination by the occupational health and safety committee, or worker representative or designate or, where there is no committee, representative or designate, by the workers and the occupational health and safety officer;

(d) when mechanical ventilation is required, the ventilating fans are located to prevent recirculation of contaminated air; and

(e) measurements of the air volume of the mechanical ventilation system are taken at suitable intervals to ensure compliance with the minimum air volume requirements in accordance with standards established by ASHRAE, ACGIH or other applicable standard approved by the minister.

(10) An employer shall ensure that, wherever possible, a less hazardous substance or work process is used in preference to a more hazardous substance or process.

(11) A ventilation system used to control airborne contaminants shall have electrical and mechanical systems designed to control all potential ignition sources and meet the requirements of the Canadian Electrical Code.

Section 46 Silica regulation

46. (1) In this section

(a) "blasting" means the cleaning, smoothing, roughening or removing of part of the surface of an article by the use as an abrasive of a jet of sand, metal shot or grit or other material propelled by compressed air or steam or by a wheel;

(b) "blasting chamber" means a blasting enclosure into which workers enter;

(c) "blasting enclosure" means a chamber, barrel, cabinet or other similar enclosure designed for the purpose of blasting in it;

(d) "cleaning of castings" means, where done as an incidental or supplemental process in connection with the making of metal castings, the freeing of the castings from adherent sand or other substance, and includes the removal of cores and the general smoothing of the castings where the freeing is done, but does not include the freeing of castings from scale formed during annealing or heat treatment;

(e) "sandblasting" means the process of projecting sand by means of compressed air or steam or by a wheel;

(f) "silica dust" means dust of respirable particle size and composed substantially of uncombined silica (Silicon Dioxide SiO2);

(g) "silica flour" means the ground material produced by the milling of siliceous rocks or other siliceous substances, including diatomite (Kieselguhr, diatomaceous earth);

(h) "uncombined silica" means silica which is not combined chemically with another element or compound; and

(i) "use of a parting material" means the application of a material to a surface of a pattern or of a mould to facilitate the separation of the pattern from a mould or the separation of parts of the mould.

(2) The provisions of this section apply wherever workers are employed in a silica process, including

(a) sandblasting;

(b) the cleaning of castings;

(c) the blasting, fettling, grinding or dressing of a surface containing silica, including the engraving or abrasive cleaning of gravestones, buildings or structures of siliceous stones or rocks;

(d) a process in which silica flour is used;

(e) the manufacture of silica-containing refractory bricks or silica-containing substances and the dismantling or repair of the refractory lining of furnaces;

(f) a process which the chief occupational medical officer has reason to believe creates a risk to the health of workers by silica dust; and

(g) a process that includes the getting, cutting, splitting, crushing, grinding, milling, drilling, sieving, or other mechanical manipulation of gravel or siliceous stone or rock where there is potential for exceeding 1% free silica or 50% of TLV.

(3) An employer shall ensure that at every silica process except sandblasting to which subsection (12) applies, the entry into the air of silica dust is prevented where reasonably practicable by the provision of

(a) total or partial enclosure of the process;

(b) efficient local exhaust ventilation;

(c) jets or sprays of water or other suitable wetting agent; and

(d) another method considered suitable by the assistant deputy minister.

(4) An employer shall ensure that

(a) enclosure apparatus and exhaust ventilation equipment used or likely to be used to contain silica dust is maintained and is inspected at least once in every 7 days and is certified by a competent person at least once in every calendar year; and

(b) effective means is provided to collect silica dust removed by exhaust ventilation equipment and to prevent its re-entry into a workroom, and every filtering or settling device situated in a workroom is completely separated from the general air of that workroom in an enclosure ventilated to the open air.

(5) Where it is not reasonably practicable to prevent the entry into the air of silica dust, the employer shall provide for the isolation of the worker from the air containing silica dust.

(6) Where it is not reasonably practicable to prevent the entry into the air of silica dust nor practicable to isolate the worker from the air containing silica dust, and for all cleaning and maintenance work, the employer shall provide for the use of each worker who may be exposed to silica dust

(a) approved respiratory protective equipment; and

(b) protective clothing, including coveralls and headgear, that, when worn, exclude silica dust and that is maintained and cleaned in a safe manner.

(7) A worker shall not be required to perform work for which respiratory protective equipment and clothing is provided unless fully instructed in the need for and proper use of that equipment and clothing.

(8) An employer shall ensure that all places where silica dust may accumulate are regularly cleaned using vacuum methods wherever practicable.

(9) An employer shall ensure that the standard for dust levels does not exceed the threshold limit value (TLV) established by the ACGIH.

(10) A worker who in the course of the worker’s employment is likely to be engaged in a silica process shall be warned by the employer of the danger to the worker’s health of inhaling silica dust and that the risk of injury is made greater by smoking.

(11) Persons under the age of 18 shall not be employed in a silica process nor in cleaning or maintenance work likely to involve exposure to silica dust except work that is a recognized part of apprenticeship or comparable course of training.

(12) An employer shall ensure that

(a) sandblasting is not done outside a blasting enclosure to an article which it is practicable to introduce into a blasting enclosure;

(b) sand or other substance containing more than 1% by weight of respirable dust is not introduced into a blasting enclosure;

(c) sandblasting is not done except with the written permission of the officer and in accordance with the conditions and to the extent that the officer may prescribe; and

(d) sandblasting is not done underground,

and sandblasting shall not be undertaken nor performed by an employer, worker or self-employed person other than those registered for that purpose with the division.

(13) An employer shall ensure where practicable that castings, gravestones and other articles which are liable to give rise to silica dust by blasting are not blasted except in a blasting enclosure, and that work is not performed in a blasting enclosure except blasting and work immediately incidental to that and the cleaning and repairing of the enclosure and of plant and appliances situated in that enclosure.

(14) An employer shall ensure that every blasting enclosure which is liable to contain silica dust is

(a) constructed, operated and maintained to prevent the escape of dust;

(b) provided with an efficient dust extraction system, which is kept in continuous operation whenever the blasting enclosure is in use whether or not blasting is actually taking place, and a blasting chamber is in operation when a worker is inside the chamber;

(c) specially inspected by a competent person once in every week in which it is used for blasting, and the enclosure, the apparatus connected with it and the ventilating plant associated with it is thoroughly examined and tested by a competent person once every month, and all results of required inspection, examinations and tests are recorded and all defects remedied without avoidable delay; and

(d) provided with efficient apparatus for separating where practicable the abrasive from other dust, and the abrasive is not again introduced into the blasting apparatus until it has been separated.

(15) An employer shall provide and maintain for workers who work in a blasting chamber, whether in blasting or other work, protective blasters' helmets supplied with clean and not unreasonably cold air of not less than 6 cubic feet a minute, and the helmets shall be used by workers whenever they are in the blasting chamber.

(16) Suitable gauntlets and coveralls shall be provided for the use of, and shall be worn by, all workers while performing blasting or assisting at blasting, and suitable provision shall be made for the storage, regular cleaning by vacuum and maintenance in good condition of the gauntlets and coveralls.

(17) When a worker is engaged in the cleaning of a blasting apparatus or enclosure, ventilating or separating plant, or the surrounds, all practical measures shall be taken to prevent the inhalation of silica dust or its dissemination into the air and all the cleaning shall be by vacuum or hosing by water whenever practicable.

(18) An employer shall ensure that silica flour

(a) is not manufactured except under standards prescribed by the division;

(b) is not used for a purpose for which a less hazardous substance may be substituted; and

(c) is not used in the manufacture of scouring powder or abrasive soaps or as an abrasive in a process.

(19) The examining physician shall record in the log the date and nature of the certificate the examining physician issues to each worker the examining physician has medically examined.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 13]

Section 47 Silica medical surveillance

47. (1) An employer shall establish and maintain a system for the surveillance of the health of employees arising from silica dust exposure in accordance with the silica health surveillance guidance document prescribed by the minister.

(2) An employee who requires silica related health surveillance is one who:

(a) works in an industry where the employee is potentially affected by a silica process as defined in this subsection 46(2);

(b) is potentially exposed to silica levels in excess of the ACGIH TLV- TWA; and

(c) has been determined, through the company's silica control program, to require silica health surveillance as prescribed in the general health surveillance section.

(3) An employer shall not regularly employ a worker in a silica process unless the employer has been assured by a medical practitioner by a written notification that the worker is medically fit for the work being undertaken.

(4) An employer shall keep at the place of employment to be readily available to an officer a log recording the name of every worker referred for medical examination.

(5) The initial health assessment shall be carried out under the direction of a physician and shall include

(a) an occupational history;

(b) a respiratory questionnaire;

(c) a pulmonary/lung function test;

(d) a chest x-ray (Full size PA view); and

(e) a medical history and physical examination emphasizing the respiratory system.

(6) A periodic health assessment shall comply with the following requirements:

(a) the frequency of chest x-rays shall be in accordance with the silica health surveillance document;

(b) the medical examination emphasizing the respiratory system shall be repeated annually unless prescribed otherwise by the physician; and

(c) the pulmonary /lung functions tests including FEV1, FVC, and DLCO standardized for alveolar volume shall be repeated annually unless prescribed otherwise by the physician.

(7) Where an employee is undergoing health surveillance for silica, the physician shall ensure, as soon as practicable, that

(a) the employee is notified of the results, together with a necessary explanation of these results;

(b) the employer is notified of the general outcome of a worker's health surveillance and is advised on the need for remedial actions; and

(c) the minister is notified of a prescribed adverse health effect that had been detected which is consistent with exposure to silica.

(8) Where an employer has been advised by the physician on the need for remedial action, the employer shall, as soon as practicable, re-evaluate the assessment of the employee's exposure to silica and implement the control measures required.

(9) An employer shall ensure employees are informed of the purpose and procedures for health surveillance and make arrangements for employees to participate in the health surveillance program.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 14]

Section 48 Asbestos

48. (1) When work or manufacturing processes cause or are likely to cause workers to be exposed to asbestos, or dusts containing asbestos, means shall be provided to control asbestos dust from exceeding the threshold limit value established by the ACGIH or lower where practically attainable.

(2) Dust arising from the cutting and shaping of block and pipe insulation materials, whether by power saws or hand saws, shall be controlled by adequate local exhaust ventilation with the discharged air passed through an effective filter.

(3) Where mortar containing asbestos is mixed, dust concentrations shall be controlled by adequate local exhaust ventilation with discharged air passed through an effective filter or other effective means.

(4) Where work is being done with asbestos containing materials, dust concentrations shall be controlled through adequate local exhaust ventilation with discharged air passed through an effective filter or other effective means.

Section 49 Lead exposure control plan

49. (1) An employer shall develop an exposure control plan for lead where

(a) a worker at a work site may be exposed to airborne lead in excess of its occupational exposure limit for more than 30 days in a year; or

(b) a worker's exposure to lead at a work site could result in an elevated body burden of lead through a route of entry.

(2) The exposure control plan shall include

(a) a statement of purpose and the responsibilities of individuals;

(b) methods of hazard identification, assessment and control;

(c) worker education and training;

(d) safe work practices as required;

(e) descriptions of personal and work site hygiene practices and decontamination practices;

(f) processes of health monitoring, including biological testing;

(g) methods of documentation and record keeping; and

(h) procedures for maintenance of the plan, including annual reviews and updating.

(3) A worker shall follow the exposure control plan and practice the personal and work site hygiene practice established by the employer to minimize lead exposure at the work site.

(4) Where there is potential for a worker to be exposed to lead in harmful amounts at a work site, an employer shall ensure that air monitoring and surface testing for lead is regularly conducted to confirm that the controls in place are effective.

(5) Where a worker at a work site could reasonably be expected to have an elevated body burden of lead, an employer shall establish a system for the surveillance of the health of their employees arising from lead exposure in accordance with the lead health surveillance guidance document as prescribed by the minister.

(6) An employer shall ensure that a worker who has been exposed to lead is informed of the health surveillance requirements.

Section 69 Painting, coating and working with plastics/resins

69. (1) This section applies to a workplace in which there is spraying or the use of paint or a similar coating, fibre-reinforced resin, thermoplastic material, an expandable resin form or other similar materials.

(2) Spraying a flammable or other hazardous product is prohibited within a general work area unless effective controls have been installed to control the fire, explosion and toxicity hazards.

(3) Where practicable, a coating shall not be applied to a material that is about to be welded.

(4) A work area or enclosure where hazardous materials are handled or used shall be posted with suitable signs or placards warning workers of the hazards within the identified restricted access area and stating the precautions for entry into the area.

(5) Where practicable, a ventilated spray booth or other enclosure designed to control worker exposure shall be used during

(a) an operation or process which involves spraying paint or resin;

(b) lay-up or moulding of reinforced plastic; or

(c) an application of a paint, coating or insulation containing a sensitizer including an isocyante compound, or similar operations using toxic materials.

(6) The air velocity through a horizontal flow spray booth, a vertical flow, down-draft or other enclosure required by subsection (5) shall be as prescribed by a standard acceptable to the minister.

(7) In outdoor applications of materials or processes listed in subsection (5), an air velocity across the work area of at least 50 fpm shall be assured, by mechanical means where necessary, to carry vapours and aerosols away from the breathing zone of a worker.

(8) A ventilation system subject to heavy concentrations of over-spray from the operation shall have an arrester filter which is maintained in good operating condition and replaced when the pressure drop across the filter exceeds the design criteria.

(9) A worker who is or may be exposed to an airborne contaminant generated by a spray operation involving a sensitizing agent shall be provided with and shall wear air-supplied respiratory protection.

(10) Only a qualified person authorized by the employer may operate

(a) an airless spray unit of the type which atomizes paint and fluid at pressure;

(b) a spray paint powered by compressed air in excess of 10 psi; or

(c) a chopper spray gun unit.

(11) An airless spray gun shall have

(a) a means to electrically bond the gun to the paint reservoir and pump;

(b) a guard that protects against trigger activation where the gun is dropped; and

(c) a trigger function configured to require two distinct operations by the user to activate the release of paint or fluid through the nozzle, or a safety device which prevents the nozzle tip from coming into contact with the worker.

(12) Emissions from operations involved in heating plastics to temperatures which may release thermal decomposition products shall be removed from the workplace by local exhaust ventilation when there is a risk of harm to a worker from exposure to these emissions.

(13) A resin foam installation process performed indoors shall be controlled or contained so that an unprotected worker is not exposed to emissions by using an enclosure or portable local exhaust ventilation or by scheduling arrangements.

(14) A resin foam installation process performed outdoors and relying on natural ventilation shall be completed in an area restricted to authorized personnel wearing adequate personal protective equipment.

(15) Safe work procedures shall be developed for lead paint removal operations, including provisions for warning unauthorized persons, worker training, containment, ventilation, work practices, personal protective equipment worker decontamination and safe means of disposal.

Part VIII MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT

Section 118 Abrasive blasting and high pressure washing definitions

118. For the purpose of this section and sections 119 to 126,

(a) "cabinet" means an enclosure designed to permit abrasive blasting, high pressure washing or a similar operation to be conducted safely inside the enclosure by a worker who is outside the enclosure;

(b) "enclosure" means a temporary or permanent enclosure of a work area provided with exhaust ventilation and makeup air to reduce exposure of workers inside the enclosure and prevent the uncontrolled release of air contaminants from the enclosure; and

(c) "high pressure washing" or "jetting" means the use of water or other liquid delivered from a pump at a pressure exceeding 34 MPa (5,000 psi), with or without the addition of solid particles, to remove unwanted matter from a surface or to penetrate into the surface of a material for the purpose of cutting that material.

Section 119 Risk assessment

119. An employer shall ensure that a risk assessment is done before any abrasive blasting activity, high pressure washing process, or related cleanup is started which may cause release of a harmful level of an air contaminant from a surface or coating containing a toxic heavy metal or hazardous substance.

Section 120 Work procedures outside a cabinet

120. Where abrasive blasting, high pressure washing or a similar operation is conducted by a worker outside a cabinet, written safe work procedures addressing the hazards and necessary controls shall be prepared and implemented by the employer.

Section 121 Substitution of abrasive blasting materials

121. Abrasive blasting materials containing crystalline silica shall be replaced with less toxic materials, where practicable.

Section 122 Cleanup

122. (1) Used abrasive blasting materials which contain a hazardous substance shall be removed from the work area using effective procedures designed to minimize the generation of airborne dust and wearing suitable personal protective equipment.

(2) Removal under subsection (1) shall take place by the end of each shift except where

(a) a risk assessment establishes that the risks from removal exceed the risks from leaving the materials in place;

(b) a worker will not be exposed to the materials before removal occurs; or

(c) the materials cannot be separated from the environment in which the abrasive blasting takes place.

(3) Where removal is delayed under subsection (2), an employer shall assess the risks arising from delay and develop written safe work procedures.

Section 123 Engineering controls

123. Engineering controls, including an enclosure or local exhaust ventilation with dust collection, shall be used to maintain airborne contaminant levels below exposure limits, where practicable.

Section 124 Exhaust ventilation

124. (1) Where abrasive blasting or a similar operation is conducted within a structure, the process shall be isolated in a separate, properly ventilated enclosure or cabinet to minimize worker exposure to air contaminants generated by the process.

(2) Where abrasive blasting or a similar operation is conducted inside an enclosure or cabinet, the enclosure or cabinet shall have exhaust ventilation that

(a) maintains air pressure below the air pressure outside the enclosure or cabinet, to prevent the escape of air contaminants from the enclosure or cabinet to other work areas; and

(b) minimizes worker exposure inside the enclosure.

Section 125 Restricted work zones

125. (1) Where abrasive blasting or a similar operation is conducted outside a structure, the process shall be restricted to a work zone which is identified by warning signs or similar means as a contaminated area.

(2) Only a properly protected worker who is necessary to perform the work shall be permitted inside an enclosure or a restricted work zone where abrasive blasting or a similar operation is conducted.

Section 126 Operating procedures

126. (1) The operating controls for a sandblasting machine or jetting gun shall be

(a) located near the nozzle in a position where the operator's hands are when using the device;

(b) a continuous pressure type that immediately stops the flow of material when released; and

(c) protected from inadvertent activation.

(2) Where hand operated controls are impracticable, subsection (1)(a) does not apply and an operator shall use a foot operated control or equivalent safety device, of a design acceptable to the minister.

(3) A jetting gun shall not be modified except as authorized by the manufacturer.

(4) A worker shall not hand hold an object while it is being cleaned or cut by a jetting gun.

(5) High pressure hoses, pipes, and fittings shall be supported to prevent excessive sway and movement.

(6) A nozzle or jetting gun operator shall wear personal protective clothing and equipment on the body, hands, arms, legs and feet, including the metatarsal area, made of canvas, leather or other material which will protect the worker's skin from injury in the event of contact with the flow from the nozzle.

(7) Except where the process is isolated from the operator in a separate cabinet, suitable respiratory protective equipment shall be provided and worn whenever abrasive blasting or a similar operation is conducted.

Part XVII CONSTRUCTION, EXCAVATION AND DEMOLITION

Section 398 Hazardous materials

398. Before work begins on the demolition or salvage of machinery, equipment, buildings or structures, the employer or owner shall

(a) inspect the site to identify asbestos, lead, biological or other heavy metal or toxic, flammable or explosive materials that may be handled, disturbed or removed;

(b) make the results of the inspection available at the worksite, including drawings, plans or specifications showing the location of hazardous substances;

(c) ensure that hazardous materials found are safely contained or removed; and

(d) where hazardous materials that were not identified in the inspection under paragraph (a) are discovered during demolition work, ensure that all work ceases until those materials are contained or removed.

Part XVIII EXCAVATION, UNDERGROUND WORK AND ROCK CRUSHING

Section 413 Air quality

413. (1) An employer shall ensure that

(a) the respirable air in all underground workings is free from hazardous amounts of dusts, vapours and gases, and does not contain less than 20% oxygen; and

(b) appropriate tests for harmful vapour, gases, fumes, mists, dusts or explosive substances and oxygen deficiency are made and recorded

(i) before entry,

(ii) after an interruption in the work procedures, and

(iii) at appropriate intervals.

(2) An employer who employs workers at a mine or quarry where silica is mined or quarried, or where it is present, shall comply with the Silica Code of Practice.

(3) The tests required under paragraph (1)(b) shall be performed by a person who has appropriate training in the proper use of testing and monitoring equipment.

(4) A worker employed in surface rock-excavating workings shall be protected from harmful dust concentrations by

(a) the use of suppression;

(b) dust removal by mechanical means; or

(c) another acceptable engineering control.

(5) Where a worker is exposed to dusting resulting from loading, transporting or conveying rock at surface operations, the dust shall be reduced to non-harmful concentrations by the application of water or by other effective methods.

(6) An employer shall ensure that dust caused by drilling or handling rock at underground rock-excavating workings is effectively suppressed by a means acceptable to the division.

(7) A rock drill, that is, a machine or device for drilling a hole in rock for the purpose of blasting, usually powered by compressed air but in which electricity or steam may be used, shall be equipped with a water jet, spray or other device acceptable to the minister to effectively suppress drilling dust.

(8) Subsection (7) does not apply to hand-drilling procedures.

(9) A water spray shall be used in every development heading unless written permission has been received from the assistant deputy minister to work the heading without a water spray.

(10) Effective dust-control measures shall be employed during the handling and loading of broken rock.

(11) Mechanical ventilation shall be provided to produce a minimum air volume of 15.24 cubic metres a minute a square metre of working face in the work area.

Part XX FIRE PREVENTION AND CONTROL

Section 443 Fire protection

443. (1) The design and occupancy of structures and the provision of fire alarm and detection equipment and fire protection equipment, in places of employment, shall comply with the Fire Prevention Act, 1991 and an employer shall ensure that work is carried out according to the applicable provisions of that Act and the National Fire Code.

(2) Fire alarm and detection equipment and fire protection equipment shall be maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions and any other requirements of provincial legislation.

(3) An employer that has

(a) controlled products as defined in the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulations, 2018 ;

(b) explosives;

(c) pesticides;

(d) radioactive material;

(e) consumer products; or

(f) hazardous waste

in quantities which may endanger fire-fighters at a workplace shall ensure that the local fire department is notified of the nature and location of the hazardous materials or substances and methods to be used in their safe handling.

(4) Subsection (3) does not apply to a workplace:

(a) where materials are kept on site for less than 5 days, where the employer ensures that an alternate and effective means of notification of the fire department, appropriate to the hazard, is in place in the event of a fire or other emergency; or

(b) which is not within the service area of a fire department.

[S.N.L. 2019, c. 8, s. 20]

Section 446 Combustible substances

446. (1) Where a work process releases finely-divided combustible dust within an enclosed area where workers are employed, effective dust control equipment shall be used.

(2) A collector of combustible dusts, other than that of the liquid spray type, shall be

(a) located outside or in isolated enclosures removed from or protected against sources of ignition; and

(b) provided with explosion relief vents.

(3) Electrical wiring and equipment in a combustible dust collector and associated rooms or enclosures shall be of the explosion-proof type.

(4) Where combustible dust collects in a building, structure, machinery or equipment, it shall be removed before the accumulation of the dust creates a fire or explosion hazard.

Part XXI WELDING, BURNING AND CUTTING OPERATIONS

Section 449 Gas welding and burning

449. (1) Welding, cutting, and similar processes shall be carried out according to the requirements of

(a) CSA Standard W117.2 in "Safety in Welding, Cutting and Allied Processes" or another standard acceptable to the minister ;

(b) the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for the equipment being used; and

(c) the applicable requirements of these regulations.

(2) Cylinders, piping and fittings of compressed and liquefied-gas systems shall be located or protected in a manner that prevents physical damage to them.

(3) A worker shall prevent a spark or flame from coming into contact with a cylinder, regulator or hose of a compressed-gas system and charged gas cylinders shall be protected from a source of heat in excess of 54.44Celsius.

(4) Before gas-welding or burning equipment is put into use, a worker shall ensure that parts are free from defects, leaks or oil and grease and only standard fittings, designed and manufactured for the specific compressed gas service shall be used.

(5) A regulator or an automatic reducing valve of welding equipment shall only be used for the gas for which it was designed.

Section 450 Compressed gas cylinders

450. (1) A compressed gas cylinder

(a) shall be

(i) secured during storage, transportation or use, and

(ii) stored, transported and used only in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, applicable CSA and NFPA standards and applicable legislation; and

(b) shall not be hoisted by slings, dropped or subjected to impact.

(2) A cylinder valve shall be closed and a hose drained when work is finished or when a cylinder is empty, and a valve protection cover shall be kept in position when a cylinder is not connected for use.

Section 451 Oxygen

451. A worker shall not

(a) permit oil or grease to contact an oxygen cylinder, valve, regulator or other fitting; or

(b) handle an oxygen cylinder or apparatus with oily or greasy hands or gloves.

Section 452 Radiation protection

452. (1) Arc welding shall not be carried out unless a worker who may be exposed to radiation from the arc flash is protected by an adequate screen, curtain or partition or wears suitable eye protection.

(2) A screen, curtain or partition near an arc welding operation shall be made of or treated with a flame-resistant material or coating, and have a nonreflective surface finish.

Section 453 Burning and welding

453. (1) Burning, welding or other hot work shall not be done in an area where there is a likelihood of the presence of flammable substances until

(a) tests have been done to ensure that work may be safely performed; and

(b) suitable procedures have been adopted to ensure that all existing or potential sources of ignition have been eliminated or effectively controlled.

(2) Where testing procedures are used, tests shall be conducted at intervals to ensure the continuing safety of workers.

(3) Burning, welding or cutting shall not be done where there is a danger of extreme heat coming into contact with a concrete surface unless that surface is protected from the source of heat.

(4) Suitable safety devices to prevent reverse gas flow and to arrest a flashback shall be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions on each hose in an oxygen system between the torch and the regulator.

Section 454 Ventilation

454. Effective local exhaust ventilation shall be used at a fixed work station to minimize worker exposure to harmful air contaminants produced by welding, burning or soldering.

Section 455 Coatings on metals

455. A coating on metal which could emit harmful contaminants, including lead, chromium, organic materials, or toxic combustion products shall be removed from the base metal, whenever practicable, before welding or cutting.

Section 456 Receptacles for stubs

456. Receptacles for electrode stubs shall be provided and used.

Section 457 Respiratory protection

457. Respiratory protective equipment shall be provided and worn where an effective means of natural, mechanical or local exhaust ventilation is not practicable.

Part XXVII CONFINED SPACE ENTRY

Section 511 Confined space entry

511. (1) An employer shall perform an assessment of the work area to determine whether it contains a confined space.

(2) For the purpose of this Part, "confined space" means an enclosed or partially enclosed space that

(a) is not designed or intended for human occupancy except for the purpose of performing work;

(b) has restricted means of access and egress; and

(c) may become hazardous to a person entering it as a result of

(i) its design, construction, location or atmosphere,

(ii) the materials or substances in it, or

(iii) any other conditions relating to it.

(3) A worker shall not work in a confined space after January 1, 2013 unless the worker has completed a confined space entry program prescribed by the commission.

(4) An employer shall inform a worker who may have to work in a confined space of a hazard by posting signs or other equally effective means of advising of the existence of and dangers posed by confined spaces.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 42]

Section 512 Corrective precautions

512. (1) Upon first entering a confined space, a worker shall assume the space is hazardous until the contrary is demonstrated.

(2) An employer shall ensure that a worker does not enter a confined space until

(a) an adequate assessment of the hazards related to the confined space has been carried out;

(b) a source containing a hazardous substance leading to the confined space is safely and completely blocked off or disconnected;

(c) a test required under subsection (11) has been completed;

(d) the worker is qualified to safely enter and perform duties within the confined space;

(e) a written work permit documenting the tests and safety precautions has been completed; and

(f) a set of written safe work procedures has been developed and a worker has been instructed in these procedures.

(3) The assessment referred to in paragraph (2)(a) shall be recorded in writing and shall consider, with respect to each confined space,

(a) the hazards that may exist due to the design, construction, location, use or contents of the confined space; and

(b) the hazards that may develop while work is done inside the confined space.

(4) The record of the assessment may be incorporated into an entry permit.

(5) Where 2 or more confined spaces are of similar construction and present the same hazards, their assessments may be recorded in a single document, but each confined space shall be clearly identified in the assessment.

(6) The employer shall appoint a person with adequate knowledge, training and experience to carry out the assessment and shall maintain a record containing details of the person's knowledge, training and experience.

(7) The assessment shall contain the name of the person who carries out the assessment.

(8) The person shall sign and date the assessment and provide it to the employer.

(9) On request, the employer shall provide copies of the assessment and of the record to

(a) the joint health and safety committee or the health and safety representative; or

(b) every worker who performs work to which the assessment relates, where the workplace has no joint health and safety committee or health and safety representative.

(10) The employer shall ensure that the assessment is reviewed as often as necessary to ensure that the assessment referred to in paragraph (2)(a) remains current.

(11) Appropriate tests for harmful vapours, gasses, fumes, mists, dusts or explosive substances and oxygen deficiency shall be made and recorded

(a) before entry into the confined space;

(b) after an interruption in the work procedures; and

(c) at appropriate intervals.

(12) Where a test made under subsection (11) indicates an unsafe condition, the confined space shall be ventilated or cleaned or both and periodically retested to ensure that:

(a) the oxygen content is between 20% and 22%;

(b) the concentration of flammable substances is maintained below 10% of the lower explosive limit (LEL) of that substance or substances; and

(c) a worker's exposure to harmful substances is maintained at acceptable levels in accordance the TLVs established by ACGIH.

(13) Where a test under subsection (11) indicates the presence of a harmful or explosive substance and it is not feasible to provide a safe respirable atmosphere, an employer shall ensure that

(a) a worker entering the confined space is provided with and wears respiratory and personal protective equipment appropriate to the hazards likely to be encountered; and

(b) where a flammable or explosive gas or liquid is present all sources of ignition are controlled or eliminated.

(14) Where control measures referred to in subsection (13) cannot be implemented, a worker shall leave the confined space.

(15) Tests made under in subsection (11) shall be performed by a person who has been adequately trained in the proper use of testing and monitoring equipment.

(16) Equipment used in testing and monitoring shall be calibrated and monitored according to the manufacturer's instructions.

(17) The completed permit referred to in paragraph (2)(e) shall be made available at the time of entry to all authorized personnel by posting it at the entry portal or by another effective means.

Section 513 Work procedures

513. (1) An employer shall ensure that a worker who is required or permitted to enter a confined space in which a harmful atmosphere exists or may develop or where the worker may become entrapped by material

(a) wears appropriate retrieval equipment which would keep the worker in a position to be rescued; and

(b) has a life-line attached to the retrieval equipment which is tended at all times by a person, stationed outside the entrance to the confined space who shall be equipped for and capable of effecting rescue

and the employer shall prevent entanglement of life-lines and other equipment where one or more workers enter the confined space.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), the use of a lifeline is not required where an obstruction or other condition makes its use impractical or unsafe but, in that case, an employer shall implement procedures to ensure the safety of the worker.

(3) Where a worker is required to enter a confined space the employer shall ensure that an attendant

(a) is assigned to the worker;

(b) is stationed outside and near

(i) the entrance to the confined space, or

(ii) where there is more than one entrance to the confined space, the one that best allows the attendant to perform the attendant's duties under subsection (4);

(c) is in continuous communication with the worker using the means of communication described in the relevant safe work procedure; and

(d) is provided with a device for summoning an adequate rescue response.

(4) An attendant shall not enter a confined space and shall, in accordance with the required safe work procedure,

(a) monitor the safety of the worker in the confined space;

(b) provide assistance to the worker; and

(c) summon an adequate rescue response where one is required.

[N.L.R. 43/22, s. 43]

Section 514 Entry into confined space

514. A confined space shall be entered only where

(a) the opening for entry and exit is sufficient to allow safe passage of a person wearing personal protective equipment;

(b) mechanical equipment in the confined space is

(i) disconnected from its power source, and

(ii) locked out and tagged;

(c) pipes and other supply lines whose contents are likely to create a hazard are blanked off;

(d) measures have been taken to ensure that, where appropriate, the confined space is continuously ventilated;

(e) liquid in which a person may drown or a free-flowing solid in which a person may become entrapped has been removed from the confined space;

(f) adequate explosion-proof illumination is provided where appropriate; and

(g) adequate barriers are erected to prohibit unauthorized entry.

Section 515 Explosives or flammable atmosphere

515. An employer shall ensure that a worker does not enter or remain in a confined space that contains or is likely to contain an explosive or flammable gas or vapour, unless

(a) the worker is performing only inspection, work that does not produce a source of ignition and, in the case of an explosive or flammable gas or vapour, the atmospheric concentration is less than 25% of its lower explosive limit, as determined by a combustible gas measuring instrument;

(b) the worker is performing only cold work and, in the case of an explosive or flammable gas or vapour, the atmospheric concentration is less than 10% of its lower explosive limit as determined by combustible gas instruments; or

(c) the worker is performing hot work and all of the following conditions are satisfied:

(i) in the case of an explosive or flammable gas or vapour, the atmospheric concentration is less than 5% of its lower explosive limit, as determined by a combustible gas instrument,

(ii) the atmosphere in the confined space does not contain, and is not likely to contain while a worker is inside, an oxygen content greater than 23%,

(iii) the atmosphere in the confined space is monitored continuously,

(iv) the entry permit includes adequate provisions for hot work and corresponding control measures, and

(v) an adequate alarm system and exit procedures are provided to ensure that workers have adequate warning and are able to exit the confined space safely where either or both of the following occur, in the case of an explosive or flammable gas or vapour

(A) the atmospheric concentration exceeds 5% of its lower explosive limit, or

(B) the oxygen content of the atmosphere exceeds 23% by volume.

Section 516 Rescue from confined space

516. An employer shall ensure that emergency rescue procedures are established and followed where workers are trained in the event of an accident or other emergency in or near the confined space, including immediate evacuation of the confined space.

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulations, 2018
C.N.L.R. 34/18

Section 2 Definitions

2. In these regulations

(a) "bulk shipment" means a shipment of a hazardous product that is contained, without intermediate containment or intermediate packaging, in

(i) a vessel that has a water capacity equal to or greater than 450 litres,

(ii) a freight container, a road vehicle, a railway vehicle or a portable tank,

(iii) the hold of a ship, or

(iv) a pipeline;

(b) "CAS registry number" means the identification number assigned to a chemical by the Chemical Abstracts Service, a division of the American Chemical Society;

(c) "category" includes a subcategory;

(d) "container" includes a bag, barrel, bottle, box, can, cylinder, drum, storage tank or similar package or receptacle;

(e) "education" means the delivery of general information to workers including information applicable to more than one workplace or job;

(f) "fugitive emission" means a gas, liquid, solid, vapour, fume, mist, fog or dust that escapes from process equipment or from emission control equipment or from a product to which workers may be readily exposed;

(g) "hazard information" means information on the proper and safe use, storage and handling of a hazardous product and includes information relating to its health and physical hazards;

(h) "hazardous product" means a product, material, mixture or substance classified by the regulations made under subsection 15(1) of the Hazardous Products Act (Canada) in a category of a hazard class listed in Schedule 2 of that Act;

(i) " Hazardous Products Regulations " means the Hazardous Products Regulations under the Hazardous Products Act (Canada) ;

(j) "hazardous waste" means a hazardous product in the workplace that is acquired or generated for recycling or recovery or is intended for disposal;

(k) "health professional" means

(i) a physician who is registered and entitled under the laws of a province to practise medicine and who is practising medicine under those laws in that province, and

(ii) a nurse who is registered or licensed and entitled under the laws of a province to practise nursing and who is practising nursing under those laws in that province;

(l) "label" means written, printed or graphic information elements relating to a hazardous product which are designed to be affixed to, printed on or attached to the hazardous product or the container in which the hazardous product is packaged;

(m) "laboratory sample" means a sample of a hazardous product packaged in a container that contains less than 10 kilograms of the hazardous product and is intended solely to be tested in a laboratory but does not include a sample that is to be used

(i) by the laboratory for testing other products, materials, mixtures or substances, or

(ii) for education or demonstration purposes;

(n) "manufactured article" means an article that

(i) is formed to a specific shape or design during manufacture, the intended use of which when in that form is dependent in whole or in part on its shape or design, and

(ii) when being installed, if the intended use of the article requires it to be installed, and under normal conditions of use, will not release or otherwise cause a person to be exposed to a hazardous product;

(o) "proceedings" has the same meaning as in subsection 19(3) of the Hazardous Materials Information Review Act (Canada) ;

(p) "product identifier" means, in respect of a hazardous product, the brand name, chemical name, common name, generic name or trade name;

(q) "readily available" means

(i) present in an appropriate place that is known to the workers,

(ii) accessible to workers at all times, and

(iii) in the form of either a physical copy that can be handled or an electronic copy that is easily available in hard copy to workers likely to be exposed to a hazardous product;

(r) "research and development" means a systematic investigation or search carried out in a field of science or technology by means of experiment or analysis, other than the disclosure of source of toxicological data under section 25;

(s) "safety data sheet" means a document that contains the headings required under the regulations made under subsection 15(1) of the Hazardous Products Act (Canada) and information about a hazardous product, including information related to the hazards associated with the use, storage or handling of the hazardous product in the workplace;

(t) "significant new data" means new data regarding the hazard presented by a hazardous product that changes its classification in a category of a hazard class or results in its classification in another hazard class, or changes the ways to protect against the hazard presented by the hazardous product;

(u) "supplier label" means a label provided by a supplier that contains information elements as required by the Hazardous Products Act (Canada)

(v) "supplier safety data sheet" means a safety data sheet provided by a supplier that contains information elements as required by the Hazardous Products Act (Canada) ;

(w) "training" refers to the delivery of workplace and job specific information to workers; and

(x) "workplace label" means a label which discloses

(i) a product identifier which is identical to that found on the safety data sheet of the corresponding hazardous product,

(ii) information for the safe handling (ii) information for the safe handling of the hazardous product which is conveyed in a manner appropriate to the workplace, and

(iii) that a safety data sheet for the hazardous product, where one has been obtained from a supplier or prepared by the employer, is available.

Section 4 Prohibition

4. (1) An employer shall ensure that a hazardous product is not used, stored or handled in a workplace unless all of the applicable requirements of these regulations in respect of labels, identifiers, safety data sheets and worker education and training are complied with.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1), an employer may store a hazardous product in a workplace while actively seeking information required by these regulations.

Section 5 Worker education and training

5. (1) An employer shall ensure that a worker who works with a hazardous product or may be exposed to a hazardous product in the course of his or her work activities is informed about all hazard information received from a supplier concerning that hazardous product as well as any further hazard information of which the employer is aware or ought to be aware concerning the use, storage, handling and disposal of that hazardous product.

(2) Where a hazardous product is produced in a workplace, an employer shall ensure that a worker who works with that hazardous product or may be exposed to that hazardous product in the course of his or her work activities is informed about all hazard information of which the employer is aware or ought to be aware concerning that hazardous product and its use, storage, handling and disposal.

Section 6 Instructions to workers

6. (1) The employer shall ensure that a worker who may be exposed to a hazardous product in the course of his or her work activities is

(a) educated in the content required on a supplier label and workplace label, and the purpose and significance of the information disclosed on it;

(b) educated in the content required on a safety data sheet, and the purpose and significance of the information contained on the safety data sheet;

(c) trained in procedures for the safe use, storage, handling and disposal of a hazardous product;

(d) trained in procedures for the safe use, storage, handling and disposal of a hazardous product contained or transferred in

(i) a pipe,

(ii) a piping system including valves,

(iii) a process vessel,

(iv) a reaction vessel, or

(v) a tank car, tank truck, ore car, conveyor belt or similar conveyance;

(e) trained in procedures to be followed where a fugitive emission is present; and

(f) trained in procedures to be followed in case of an emergency involving a hazardous product.

(2) An employer shall ensure that the program of worker education and training required by subsection (1) is developed and implemented

(a) for that employer's workplace and related to the workplace's hazard prevention and control program; and

(b) in consultation with the occupational health and safety committee or the worker health and safety representative.

(3) An employer shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that

(a) the program of worker education and training required by subsection (1) results in a worker being able to apply the information as needed to protect the worker's health and safety; and

(b) the knowledge of workers is periodically evaluated using written tests, practical demonstrations or other suitable means.

(4) The employer shall review at least annually, or more frequently where required by a change in work conditions or available hazard information, and in consultation with the occupational health and safety committee or the worker health and safety representative, the education and training programs that have been developed and implemented to provide to workers the knowledge required to safely use, store, handle and dispose of hazardous products.