Ontario is continuing its efforts to reduce workplace injuries by focusing on hazards involving chemicals used in all workplaces, especially at swimming pools and spas, dry cleaning operations, metal fabrication shops and health care facilities.

Throughout September, Ministry of Labour occupational health and safety inspectors will focus on hazards involving disinfecting chemicals (such as chlorine), dry cleaning solvents, metal­working fluids and detergents.  The inspectors will check that workers have been trained to work with chemicals that could endanger their health if not handled properly.  They will also check that chemicals are stored safely and properly labelled and that protective equipment such as respirators and eye-wash fountains are available to workers.

Inspectors will take enforcement action as appropriate for any contraventions found under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations.

This initiative is part of the province's Safe At Work Ontario blitz strategy announced in July 2008.  Keeping workers safe means increased productivity for Ontario's economy and less strain on the province's health care system.