Ontario To Better Protect Workers Against Hazardous Substances
Tougher Exposure Limits Would Help Workers
July 28 2006 - The Ontario government is strengthening
protection for workers by proposing new or updated occupational exposure
limits for 27 hazardous substances, Labour Minister Steve Peters announced
today.
"Protecting the health and safety of Ontario workers is a priority for
our government," said Peters. "Exposure to hazardous substances can cause
occupational illness, which impacts on individuals and families as well as
businesses. That is why we are updating Ontario's exposure limits based on the
most current information available."
Occupational exposure limits (OELs) restrict a worker's exposure to
hazardous substances on the job. Ontario currently has OELs for over 700
substances. Since the government initiated an annual review process in 2004,
104 OELs have been revised, updated or added.
The Ministry of Labour is undertaking a 60-day consultation to allow
stakeholders to comment on proposed new and revised limits and listings for
these 27 hazardous substances. This includes proposed limits for two
substances for which a limit does not currently exist in Ontario: Coumaphos
and Monochloroacetic acid. Revised limits and/or listings are proposed for 25
other substances, including: Silica and Iron Oxide.
This is just one of a number of initiatives the government has taken to
support workers on the job. Other measures include:
- The High-Risk initiative, targeting enforcement efforts at Ontario
workplaces with the highest injury rates and highest costs in
Workplace Safety and Insurance Board claims
- The Pains and Strains initiative, targeting musculo-skeletal
injuries, which make up a significant portion of all workplace
injuries
- Hiring 200 new health and safety inspectors. Of these, 131 are
already working across Ontario. All 200 will be carrying out
inspections of high-risk workplaces early next year.
To participate in the consultation, submit comments to the ministry at
the address provided in the proposal. Copies of the proposal are on the
Ministry of Labour website, or are available by calling 416-326-9299. The
submission deadline is September 30, 2006.
"The Ontario government wants to consult with all affected stakeholders,
including business and labour, before introducing new exposure limits," said
Peters. "The government is on the side of working families - protecting them
from potentially hazardous substances that can cause illness or disability."
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