Overview

The chemical handling provincial enforcement initiative was carried out by occupational hygienists from April 1, 2018 to March 31, 2019. During this initiative, occupational hygienists reviewed factors such as:

  • ventilation
  • personal protective equipment including respirators and gloves
  • emergency eyewash and shower provisions
  • training of workers

Hygiene chemical handling

Chemicals can be a source of injury to workers causing chemical burns or occupational diseases such as dermatitis. Roots Routes of exposure to chemicals can include inhalation and skin absorption by the worker. Workers can be at risk at any point of contact, from the moment of receiving the shipment to the product’s end use.

Results

During this initiative, ministry hygienists:

  • conducted 88 field visits
  • visited 65 workplaces
  • issued 116 orders and requirements, including 7 stop work orders
    • orders per field visit – 1.8
    • orders per workplace visited – 1.3