The McGuinty government is strengthening protection for workers by updating occupational exposure limits (OELs) for 36 hazardous substances consulted on during our 2008 and 2009 annual consultations.

Some of the 36 hazardous chemical exposure limits updated include polyvinyl chloride and ethanol.

Diseases caused by exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace are a serious problem and require precautions to be in place to protect workers.

The Ministry of Labour is also taking steps to consolidate and streamline regulations for hazardous substances while maintaining existing worker protections for exposure to these substances.  The consolidation will make it easier for employers to access and comply with the regulations

The changes will take effect on July 1, 2010.

Background

OELs for hazardous substances in the workplace were first adopted into regulation in Ontario in the early 1980's.

There are now over 725 substances regulated under Ontario's Occupational Health and Safety Act.  They are primarily based on limits recommended by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), a non-profit, internationally-recognized organization of professionals who promote health and safety in the workplace.

OELs restrict the amount and length of time a worker is exposed to hazardous chemical substances such as those substances used in manufacturing and repair operations.

In 2004, the Ministry of Labour introduced an annual review process for OELs to ensure worker protection.  The ministry has consulted with stakeholders such as employer and worker groups and implemented updates to OELs on a regular basis.  Since 2004, more than 170 OELs have been updated under this review process.

What is Changing?

Hazardous Substances

Effective July 1, 2010, updates are being made to 36 substances. The changes include:

• Adding exposure limits for two new substances (butenes and polyvinyl chloride [PVC])
• Revising limits or information listings for 23 substances and
• Withdrawing specific exposure limits for 11 substances that will be regulated either under a different substance or calculation method or because the ACGIH found a lack of information to support an OEL.

The existing limits for two other substances included in the 2009 consultation - beryllium and sulphur dioxide - will be maintained pending further consultation and review.

Consolidating Regulations

Eleven of 12 stand-alone designated substance regulations are being consolidated into one designated substances regulation.  Regulation 278/05, Asbestos on Construction Projects and in Buildings and Repair Operations was not consolidated.  This will make compliance easier for employers who will now be able to consult two regulations instead of 12.