Indoor air quality analysis http://www.airzoneone.com comprehensive occupational health and saftey and lab for air quality Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:52:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 OH&S Update: Bill 160 and MOL Inspections http://www.airzoneone.com/ohs-update-bill-160-mol-inspections/ http://www.airzoneone.com/ohs-update-bill-160-mol-inspections/#comments Thu, 14 Mar 2013 20:20:29 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2496 Bill 160

In June 2011, Bill 160 became law, with all provisions now in effect as of April 2012. The Bill transferred responsibility for the prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) to the Ministry of Labour (MOL). Other changes that came into effect were the creation of a Chief Prevention Officer (CPO) at the MOL (currently held by George Gritiziotis) and a prevention council, whose primary role is to provide expert advice to the CPO and Minister of Labour.

One of the first recommendations of the prevention council will be to require all employers in Ontario to deliver mandatory health and safety awareness training to all employees and supervisors covered by the Occupational Health and Safety Act in 2014. The new training requirement, currently slated to become law by Jan. 1, 2014, is one of the province’s first prevention initiatives, which will be overseen by Ontario’s CPO. According to the Ministry of Labour, a transition period will be implemented to give employers time to ensure existing workers and supervisors have completed awareness training programs before the proposed regulation is expected to come into effect.

MOL Inspections

Has the Ministry of Labour made a surprise visit to your facility and left you with a Ministerial order regarding air quality and worker exposure? Airzone can provide prompt service and expertise to assist with the requirements of the order and help you attain compliance.

Already in compliance?

Airzone can help keep it that way by reviewing your historical hygiene reports to determine that testing for worker exposure was comprehensive and followed appropriate methodologies. Periodic air testing is a good way to maintain due diligence and be proactive with respect to worker exposure. For some of our clients keeping periodic OHS reports up to date has assisted with WSIB complaints from workers alleging hazards due to exposures. We can also deploy our qualified hygienists quickly to assist with issues that arise and could potentially hold up production such as worker complaints/concerns regarding a new product used in the process.

DESIGNATED SUBSTANCES

Does your facility use a product that is or contains a designated substance? Airzone can assist with a designated substance assessment to determine which products may contain designated substances. Special attention to these products may include MSDS review, air testing, and possibly a designated substance control program.

For more detailed information on all OH&S concerns you can contact: Ryan Dignard at ext 103 (rdignard[at]airzoneone.com) or Charles Geen at ext 104 (cgeen[at]airzoneone.com).

AIRZONE ONE NEWS

For international work Airzone has been seconded to review air quality modelling for a major power plant development in Eastern Europe by the World Bank. We also continue to provide analysis and support for Environment Canada’s Arctic air quality monitoring program. Airzone is also active in the Caribbean assisting local companies with regulatory emissions reporting as well as providing analysis of air samples taken for regulatory compliance purposes.

In Ontario, we recently completed numerous TRA Phase I plan submissions for a wide range of industries. We worked on land-use compatibility studies (under the MOE’s D-series Land Use guidelines) for dust and odour-related issues. We have also completed, or are working on, numerous ECA applications (coating industries, galvanizing, electroplating, etc.) and EASRs for numerous industry sectors.

To inquire about lab analysis contact Phil Fellin at 905 890 6957 ext. 105 (pfellin[at]airzoneone.com)

Sign up to receive our newsletter via email.

]]> http://www.airzoneone.com/ohs-update-bill-160-mol-inspections/feed/ 0 Winter 2013 News Bulletin- Emissions Reporting TRA and ChemTRAC http://www.airzoneone.com/2013-winter-news-bulletin-emissions-reporting-tra-and-chemtrac/ http://www.airzoneone.com/2013-winter-news-bulletin-emissions-reporting-tra-and-chemtrac/#comments Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:41:36 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2484 EMISSIONS REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
1. PROVINCIAL TOXICS REDUCTION ACT (TRA) REQUIREMENTS

The goal of the Toxics Reduction Act is to reduce the use and emissions of toxic substances. It requires facilities within Ontario to:

  1. Track and Account for toxic substances used, created, emitted, disposed of at their facility, with reports due June 1st of each year, and,
  2. Prepare a plan to reduce toxic substances, which are due December 31st this year. The plan must be certified by a certified planner and the highest ranking employee.
Does the Toxic Reductions Act Apply to my Company?

Toxic substances are defined as: All substances and substance groupings under NPRI as well as acetone (adopted from O.Reg.127/01) – if you report to NPRI and are located in Ontario, TRA applies to you.

Accounting and Reporting Requirements

The Act requires prescribed facilities to track and account for the use, creation, disposal, and in product use of toxic substances at a facility. The facility must report these to the MOE and public. This report is due annually for as long as the facility meets reporting requirements as described above.

Toxics Reduction Plan

The Act requires that a facility prepare a plan to reduce the use, creation, disposal and emissions of toxic substances. The plan is due December 31st based on the previous year’s data, and is valid for 5 years or until there is a major change to the facility.

Lessons Learned from Phase I TRA Plan Submissions
  1. Have your NPRI calculations double-checked; many errors were found in third party calculations we reviewed.
  2. Start the planning process early; Airzone will be offering a 5% discount to all facilities that start their Planning with us before August 1st

The deadline for Accounting Reports is fast approaching (June 1st, 2013). If you require assistance contact Margaret Matusik at 905 890 6957 ext. 101 (mmatusik[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at 905-890-6957 ext. 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

2. CITY OF TORONTO (CHEMTRAC) REQUIREMENTS

Under the City of Toronto’s Municipal Code Chapter 423, and as of 2013, all companies in Toronto are required to report annualized air emissions as part of the final phase-in of this municipal regulation. Reporting is required by June 30th based on previous calendar year’s emissions. Since the reporting thresholds are much lower than for NPRI or TRA, much smaller facilities will be included under this regulation.
If you require assistance contact Nicole Shantz at 905 890 6957 ext. 109 (nshantz[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at 905-890-6957 ext. 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

Additional Provincial News
  1. ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVITY AND SECTOR REGISTRY (EASR) REGULATIONS

    EASRs provide EPA s.9 approvals for certain activities without the need to conduct a formal impact assessment (as is required for ECAs). However, they are only allowed for certain activities; since 2011 automotive spray booths, emergency generators and comfort heating systems have been EASR-eligible. In November 2012, the Ministry of the Environment has allowed three additional activities (small ground-mounted solar units, lithographic, screen and digital printing and non-hazardous waste transportation systems) to register under the EASR program, and has also made changes to the standby power system requirements for current EASR eligible power system activities.

    For more detailed information you can contact: Lucas Neil at 905 890 6957 ext. 111 (lneil[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at ext 107 (rsabino[at[airzoneone.com).

  2. FURTHER PHASE-IN OF REGULATION 419

    As of February 1, 2013 Schedule 5 companies were to update their Emission Summary and Dispersion Modelling (ESDM) reports to use the new assessment models and air quality standards set forth. ESDM reports are the air impact assessment reports used as part of an ECA permit application. However, this requirement need not be accompanied by an application for s.9 approval.

    Henceforth, all Schedule 4 and 5 companies need to update their ESDM’s annually, to be current as of December 31st, by March 31st of the following year.

    For more detailed information you can contact: Roy Sabino at ext 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com) or Franco DiGiovanni at ext 102 (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com).

FEDERAL NEWS

ENVIRONMENTAL EMERGENCIES AND E2 PLANNING

This regulation applies to any person who owns or has the charge, management, or control of a substance listed in Schedule 1 of the Environmental Emergency Regulations (“the E2 Regulations”), and stores it in a container that could hold an amount greater than the threshold minimum amounts provided (i.e., has the potential to store that amount on-site). The regulation requires companies to prepare emergency release plans. Airzone can assist with emergency release modeling (US EPA ADAM/AFTOX/HGSYSTEM/SLAB models) as part of the emergency release plan.

For more detailed information you can contact: Franco DiGiovanni at ext 102 (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com).

]]> http://www.airzoneone.com/2013-winter-news-bulletin-emissions-reporting-tra-and-chemtrac/feed/ 0 ECAs Introduction to Annual Standards 2016 http://www.airzoneone.com/ecas-introduction-to-annual-standards-2016/ http://www.airzoneone.com/ecas-introduction-to-annual-standards-2016/#comments Wed, 30 Jan 2013 21:08:50 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2479 In 2011, the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) introduced for the first time air standards with annual averaging periods to be used when applying for an Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA).  All of the new annual standards will take effect on July 1, 2016.

  • Benzene: 0.45 µg/m3
  • Benzo-a-pyrene (as a surogate of total PAHs): 0.00001 µg/m3
  • 1,3-Butadiene: 2 µg/m3
  • Chromium Compounds (Hexavalent): 0.00014 µg/m3
  • Nickel and Nickel Compounds: 0.04 µg/m3
  • Uranium and Uranium Compound (in the PM10 fraction): 0.03 µg/m3

We recommend companies assess their facility air emissions against the new standards (should they apply) well in advance of 2016 in order to determine if their facility remains in compliance with the new standards.  The new annual standards are much lower than the traditional 24-hour standards.  It has been our experience that these low standards can cause compliance concerns and required additional work in order show compliance. Starting your assessment now will leave you with plenty of time to explore all options in order to ensure compliance.

For more detailed information on how these new standards may directly affect you, contact Dr. Lucas Neil at 905 890 6957 ext. 111 or by email at (lneil[at]airzoneone.com).

For more detailed information on these specific substances please see below.

Chromium Compounds (Hexavalent)

Chromium and chromium compounds are mainly used in the metallurgical, refractory, and chemical industries.  Historically, Cr(VI) has been regarded as an organ-specific respiratory carcinogen.  Effects include respiratory irritation and atrophy, altered lung function and systemic effects (e.g. renal and liver toxicity, immune system effects).

1,3-Butadiene

1,3-butadiene is produced in significant quantities from industrial sources associated with the manufacturing of various chemical products, particularly rubber and plastics. A number of agencies including Health Canada and Environment Canada classified 1,3-butadiene as likely carcinogenic to humans.

Benzene

Benzene is a major petroleum derivative used to synthesize a significant number of high-use petrochemicals.  Major anthropogenic sources of benzene include automobile exhaust, point-source emissions from petroleum refineries and processing units, and fugitive emissions.  Through a wide range of studies, it has been determined that benzene is carcinogenic in humans and animals.

Nickel and Nickel Compounds

Elemental nickel is mainly used in the production of stainless steel and other nickel alloys. Since lung and nasal cancer are the most significant toxic effects associated with nickel compounds, the standard has focussed on PM10 (particulate matter less than 10 µm in size). In addition, soluble nickel species are key contributors to non-cancer respiratory effects.

Benzo(a)pyrene (as a surrogate for PAHs)

Benzo(a)pyrene (B[a]P) is the most common, and most widely studied, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) species and serves as an indicator of the relative potency of other PAHs.  B[a]P and other PAHs are generally formed during incomplete combustion of organic material and fossil fuels in connection with industrial and other human activities. The carcinogenic effects associated with PAH exposure have been widely reported in the literature (i.e. increased levels of lung and other cancers from occupational exposure).

Uranium and Uranium Compounds (in particulate matter that is less than 10 µm in diameter)

Uranium is a naturally occurring element that is present at low levels in the environment. Other sources of exposure to uranium are from uranium ore processing and refining. Uranium can be harmful to human health as a chemical and as a radioactive isotope. Effects are primarily associated with respiratory and renal toxicity; the latter effect is the most sensitive observed endpoint associated with uranium.

If you would like to receive our notifications via email please sign up at www.airzoneone.com/newsletter-sign-up/.

]]> http://www.airzoneone.com/ecas-introduction-to-annual-standards-2016/feed/ 0 Air Quality Updates – Seminar Series http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-updates-seminar-series/ http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-updates-seminar-series/#comments Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:47:14 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2445 Location:

222 Matheson Boulevard East, Mississauga, Ontario, L4Z 1X1, (north side of Matheson, east of Hurontario St. between Whittle and McAdam Roads).

Session Dates:
1st Seminar: Toxics Reduction Planning for Phase 1 Facilities – Thurs. Oct. 4th, 2012

The various components of planning and certification will be described including identifying mandatory and discretionary components.  All attendees will be eligible for a free consultation at their facility (within the GTA), on the applicability of TRA. [Registration required by Sep. 26th, 2012]

2nd Seminar: Environmental Compliance Approvals and Registration (Air&Noise) in Ontario – Lessons Learned so Far – Thurs. Oct. 25th, 2012

Details covered include the criteria required to apply for, or to be exempt from, Registration or an ECA, other recent regulatory changes, noise-related requirements and a description of the application package.  All attendees will be eligible for a free consultation at their facility (within the GTA), on their ECA compliance status.[Registration required by Oct. 17th, 2012]

3rd Seminar: Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace – Wed. Nov. 21st, 2012

Discussion topics will include worker exposure monitoring for chemical and physical agents, Occupational Health & Safety Acts & Regulations, exposure limits, sampling and analytical methods, results interpretation, control strategies, and designated substance assessments.  All attendees will be eligible for a free consultation and facility walk through (within the GTA). [Registration required by Nov. 14th, 2012]

4th Seminar: Indoor Air Quality and the Office Environment – Wed. Jan. 30th, 2013 (snowdate: Thurs Jan. 31st, 2013)

Indoor air quality issues: Updates on issues and concerns in indoor environments.  All attendees will receive a free VOC passive sampler, which can be deployed in a location of their choice to test IAQ in the office; we will provide free analysis of that sample and a report.  [Registration required by Jan. 23rd, 2013]

5th Seminar: Updates on Annual Emissions Reporting – Wed. Mar. 6th 2013 (snowdate: Thurs Mar. 7th, 2013)

We will be covering OReg 127/NPRI, City of Toronto (ChemTrac), GHGs and Toxics Reduction Act reporting, including who is required to report, reporting thresholds and calculations, reporting methods and reporting deadlines.  All attendees will be eligible for a free consultation at their facility (within the GTA), on their Emissions Reporting compliance status. [Registration required by Feb. 27th, 2013]

6th Seminar:  Mould and Indoor Air Quality – Wed. Apr. 17th 2013

The effects of mould on human health will be explored, assessment and sampling strategies outlined and requirements for remediation described.  All attendees will be eligible for a free walk- through of their facility (within the GTA) and assessment of potential mould issues. [Registration required by Apr. 10th, 2013]

Registration:

Please send your RSVP and contact details to:  info[at]airzoneone.com, Attention:  Natalie De Sousa.

If you would like to receive our notifications via email please sign up.

Top
]]> http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-updates-seminar-series/feed/ 0 Airzone Summer 2012 News Bulletin http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2012-news-bulletin/ http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2012-news-bulletin/#comments Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:48:31 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2423 Toxics Reduction Act (TRA)

The goal of the Toxics Reduction Act is to reduce the use and emissions of toxic substances. It requires subscribed facilities within Ontario to:

  1. Track and Account for toxic substances used, created, emitted, disposed of at their facility
  2. Report to the MOE and the public
  3. Prepare a plan to reduce toxic substance
Does the Toxic Reductions Act Apply to my Company?

Toxic substances are defined as:  All substances and substance groupings under NPRI as well as acetone (adopted from O.Reg.127/01). The regulation is being introduced in two phases:

Phase I:

For 47 priority substances and substance groupings (listed in Table A O.Reg. 455/09) tracking January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010. The first report was due by June 1, 2011.

Phase II:

All remaining substances under NPRI and acetone tracking January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012.  The first report is due by June 1, 2013.

TRA Reporting thresholds align with the rules, exemptions and thresholds of NPRI.  TRA prescribed facilities are identified using the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code commencing with the digits 31, 32 or 33 (covering all manufacturing facilities); and Facilities commencing with the digits 212 that process minerals using chemicals to extract, refine or concentrate an ore.

Accounting and Reporting Requirements

The Act requires prescribed facilities to track and account for the use, creation, disposal, and in product use of toxic substances at a facility.  The facility must report these by June 1st for the previous calendar year to the MOE and public.  This report is due annually for as long as the facility meets reporting requirements as described above.

Toxics Reduction Plan

The Act requires that a facility prepare a plan to reduce the use, creation, disposal and emissions of toxic substances.  The plan is due December 31st based on the previous year’s data, and is valid for 5 years or until there is a major change to the facility.  The plan must be certified by a certified planner and the highest ranking employee.

The deadline for Toxics Reduction Plans for Phase I facilities is fast approaching (Dec 31st, 2012).  If you are looking for a certified planner contact Franco DiGiovanni at 905 890 6957 ext. 102 or by email at (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com).

More Provincial News
Environmental Activity and Sector Registry (EASR) Proposed Regulations

The Ministry of the Environment is taking public reviews and comments for 45 days starting on July 25th 2012 to consult on proposed regulations to allow three additional activities to register under the EASR and proposed changes to the standby power system requirements for current EASR eligible power system activities.  The proposal would affect small ground-mounted solar units, lithographic, screen and digital printing and non-hazardous waste transportation systems.  For more detailed information you can review the MOE document directly , contact us on the web, or directly contactFranco DiGiovanni at 905 890 6957 ext. 102 or by email at (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at ext 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

Federal News
Guidance For Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) in Residential Indoor Air

The Minister of Health has given notice that previous guidance for PM2.5 exposure, made by Health Canada in 1987, be rescinded.  There are no exposure limits given by the Minister.  In place of concrete guidance, the Minister recommends decreasing PM2.5 exposure as much as possible.  It is believed that less exposure is equated with health benefits.  Two simple recommendations are to not smoke indoors and to use a stove top fan while cooking.

Airzone One News

We have recently updated our lab capabilities with the acquisition of two new GC-MS systems, one of which has thermal desorption capabilities.  Additionally we acquired a new GC TCD/FPD to continue to position ourselves as leaders in reduced sulfur compound analysis.  Furthermore, we have decided to upgrade our gas systems and are now, with the purchase of gas generators, able to generate our own hydrogen, Zero Air and Nitrogen.  All of these upgrades are in line with our continued commitment to lab excellence and accuracy and will help us provide more accurate analysis and quicker turnaround times for our clients.

To inquire about lab analysis contact Phil Fellin at 905 890 6957 ext. 105 (pfellin[at]airzoneone.com)

Top
]]> http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2012-news-bulletin/feed/ 0 Current and Future Ministry of Labour Inspection Blitzes http://www.airzoneone.com/current-and-future-ministry-of-labour-inspection-blitzes/ http://www.airzoneone.com/current-and-future-ministry-of-labour-inspection-blitzes/#comments Fri, 19 Oct 2012 13:51:29 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=2413
  • Manufacturing focus – From October to November 2012 Inspectors will focus on key hazards associated with manufacturing processes which include, guarding and lockout, worker to worker workplace violence, Internal Responsibility System (IRS), occupational disease (noise and chemical exposure) and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).  The targeted sectors will be in the automotive, food and beverage, wood and metal fabrication, textiles and printing, pulp and paper, chemical, rubber and plastic, primary metals ceramics and logging sub-sectors.

    • Airzone One is specialized in helping clients within these sectors determine worker exposures to chemical agents and noise.  This ensures compliance with OHSA and its regulations.  We can also provide effective health and safety plans to ensure workers are trained and educated about the hazards present in the workplace.

    • Slips/trips and falls – Falls continue to be an issue in all industrial workplaces, including restaurants, education, tourism and hospitality, food beverage and tobacco. From February 1 to March 31, 2013, Ministry of Labour inspectors will look for hazards that can cause industrial workers to slip, trip or fall. There will be a three-pronged approach including; falls from heights; falls from ladders and mobile ladder stands and platforms; and same-level falls (trips and slips).

    Airzone One’s occupational health and safety team can assist employers in preventing workplace slips, trips, and falls with our specialized awareness programs.

    ]]>     http://www.airzoneone.com/current-and-future-ministry-of-labour-inspection-blitzes/feed/ 0     Winter 2012 Air Quality News Bulletin http://www.airzoneone.com/winter-2012-air-quality-news-bulletin/ http://www.airzoneone.com/winter-2012-air-quality-news-bulletin/#comments Tue, 06 Mar 2012 15:25:51 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=1213 ONTARIO PROVINCIAL NEWS

    Toxics Reduction Act “ Accounting and Reduction Planning

    The Toxics Reduction Act was invoked by the MOE January 1, 2010 requiring industries to:

    (i) report emissions on 47 priority NPRI substances used during 2010 by June 1, 2011; the 47 priority substances are termed Phase 1 substances.   January 1 of this year, this requirement applies to the balance of the NPRI substances and acetone (Phase 2 substances), which will need to be reported by June 1, 2013,

    (ii) provide a detailed accounting of the usage and loss of those substances, as they move through the manufacturing process, was required by June 1, 2011 for Phase 1 substances, and will be required by June 1, 2013 (based on 2012 annual data) for Phase 2 substances, and,

    (iii) develop substance reduction plans, with a specific plan for each substance, to be completed by December 31 this year for users of the 47 priority substances and December 31, 2013 for the balance of the NPRI substance and acetone.   Although implementation of these plans is voluntary, the plans will need to be reviewed by certified toxics reductions planners.   The MOE will soon certify toxic reduction planners within Ontario and Airzone will have certified planners on staff.

    Airzone can assist you with substance reporting, accounting and reductions planning.   If you need more information please contact Roy Sabino (ext. 107) or Margaret Matusik (ext. 101).

    NB Mr. Roy Sabino, C.E.T., will be providing a free breakfast seminar on March 7th on Federal and Provincial environmental emissions reporting requirements, including a description of requirements for Ontario industries for the Toxics Reduction Act.   Please contact Ms Natalie DeSousa (ext. 100) for further details and registration.

    Activity Registration “ Lessons learned so far and further developments

    As of October 2011 eligible comfort heating systems, emergency generators and auto-body paint spray shops are to apply for environmental registration rather than for an Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA; formerly CofA).   This is a welcome change for most proponents installing new equipment as registration does not require air or noise emission assessments and registration is virtually immediate once on-line forms have been filled-out.   This contrasts to the old CofA process, for those activities, that required air and noise emission assessments and where permit approval took months before installation could take place.

    However, bear in-mind that currently existing heating systems, emergency generators and auto-body paint spray shops will need to be registered, over the next five years, regardless of whether they have or are included in a CofA.   If you have equipment in these categories and require help registering please contact us (details below).

    In addition, the MOE has recently announced provisional plans to allow registration of the following activities: Waste collection and transportation, Redi-Mix Concrete Manufacturing, Lithographic, Screening and Digital Printing, and Concrete Product Manufacturing.

    Airzone can assess whether your activities qualify for registration and assist with the process contact Franco DiGiovanni at ext. 102 (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at ext. 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

    5-Year Phase-in of New Annual Air Standards

    In 2011, the MOE introduced new or updated standards for eight contaminants, including annual standards for benzene, 1,3-butadiene, chromium VI, nickel, benzo[a]pyrene (BaP, as a surrogate for PAH) and uranium and 24-hour standards for chromium (0, II, & III), dioxins and furans, and manganese.   Along with the annual standards for these substances assessment against annual assessment values, upper risk thresholds and daily assessment values will also be required.   This will increase the level of effort required to assess impacts for these substances and therefore modelling requirements for permit applications.   Compliance with these new standards must be demonstrated by July 1, 2016 even if your current emissions are permitted.

    If you use or emit these substances and require assistance with determining whether current operations will remain in compliance with these new air standards contact Franco DiGiovanni at ext. 102 (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at ext. 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

    New draft Guide to Applying for an ECA

    The MOE has recently issued a draft version of a Guide for applying for an Environmental Compliance Approval (ECA).   ECA s have replaced Certificates of Approval (CofA s) as part of the MOE s modernization of environmental approvals.

    If you need assistance with an ECA application contact Franco DiGiovanni at ext. 102 (fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com) or Roy Sabino at ext. 107 (rsabino[at]airzoneone.com).

    CANADIAN FEDERAL NEWS

    Emergency response plans

    The Federal government added 41 additional toxic or flammable substances to those listed in its Environmental Emergency (EE) Regulations.   It will largely affect metal mining, smelting and petrochemical facilities.
    Under the revised EE regulations, companies that store more than a threshold amount of identified toxic or otherwise dangerous substances must develop environmental emergency plans.   About 2,400 facilities across Canada currently need to undertake EE planning.

    For example, styrene and ammonium nitrate were added to Schedule 1, Part 1, acetic acid, dichloromethane and sulphur hexafluoride were added to Part 2 and arsenic, DEHP, trichloroethylene, cadmium oxide, tetrachloroethylene and nickel sulphate were added to Part 3.

    2011 NPRI requirements

    NPRI requirements for 2011, reports due on June 1, 2012 were published with very few changes.   Of note is that the mass and concentration threshold for selenium has changed to 100 kg at a concentration of 0.000005%.

    AIRZONE NEWS

    Our permitting group continues to work on ECA s (formerly CofA s) to ensure that companies meet regulatory requirements, specifically for waste management companies, tool manufacturers, railings manufacturers, chrome plating, food manufacturers, the aerospace industry, automotive and furniture manufacturers and large office property owners, among other clients.   We are also assisting clients with registrations for emergency gen sets and comfort heating systems.

    Airzone s laboratory has been upgraded by acquisition of several new instruments (GC/MSs & GC/FPDs).   In addition to improving operational efficiency, the new instrumentation will improve detectability of several classes of airborne compounds that we regularly analyze.   Reduced sulphur compound, VOC and PAH analyses, in particular, will benefit.

    Airzone has been retained by a UNEP funded agency to assist with establishing an atmospheric deposition monitoring network across Equatorial Africa.   The aim is to identify, quantify and (ultimately) manage atmospheric nutrient deposition to the African Great Lakes.   Airzone has also been retained by for continuous airborne particle (TSP, PM2.5 & PM10) monitoring of dust at several major constructions projects in the GTA.

    Dr. Nicole Shantz joined Airzone in the Fall of 2011 from Environment Canada.   Dr. Shantz specializes in cloud aerosol physics and chemistry.   Dr. Shantz has commenced air modeling for ECAs and working on continuous particulate monitoring project where data collection and interpretation from multiple sources is essential.

    Contact Franco DiGiovanni [ext. 102, fdi-giovanni[at]airzoneone.com] or Phil Fellin (ext. 105) to enquire about these topics, or to review your air quality issues in light of new regulations.

    To subscribe to our newsletter via email please take a moment and sign up at www.airzoneone.com/newsletter-sign-up/.

    ]]>     http://www.airzoneone.com/winter-2012-air-quality-news-bulletin/feed/ 0     Air Quality Breakfast Seminar Series: 2011/2012 http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-breakfast-seminar-series-20112012/ http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-breakfast-seminar-series-20112012/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 17:37:15 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=1195 This is an Airzone One announcement about our series of breakfast seminars.   A light breakfast will be available during each seminar and discussions will begin at 7:30 a.m. and end at 9 a.m.

    Location:

    Airzone One, 222 Matheson Boulevard East, Mississauga, Ontario, L4Z 1X1, (north side of Matheson, east of Hurontario St. between Whittle and McAdam Roads) or (depending on demand) Canadian Standards Association Offices at 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Etobicoke, Ontario, M9W 1R3.

    Session Dates:

    1st Seminar:   Industrial Hygiene in the Workplace “ Tues. Oct. 18th, 2011

    Worker air exposure assessment topics will include Occupational Health & Safety Acts & Regulations, exposure limits, sampling and analytical methods, results interpretation, and control strategies. [Registration required by Oct. 12th, 2011]

    2nd Seminar:   Certificates of Approval (C of A [Air & Noise]) in Ontario: Updates and Modernization “ Wed. Nov. 23rd, 2011

    Details covered include the criteria required to apply for or to be exempt from a C of A, recent regulatory changes, noise-related requirements and a description of the application package. [Registration required by Nov. 16th, 2011]

    3rd Seminar:   Indoor Air Quality and the Office Environment “ Wed. Jan. 25th, 2012 (snow date: Thurs Jan. 26th, 2012)

    Indoor air quality issues: Updates on issues and concerns in indoor environments. [Registration required by Jan. 18th, 2012]

    4th Seminar:   Annual Emissions Reporting “ Wed. Mar. 7th 2012 (snow date: Thurs. Mar. 8th, 2012)

    We will be covering O. Reg. 127/NPRI, City of Toronto and Toxics Reduction Act reporting, including who is required to report, reporting thresholds and calculations, reporting methods and reporting deadlines. [Registration required by Feb. 29th, 2012]

    5th Seminar:   Mould and Indoor Air Quality “ Wed. Apr. 11th 2012

    The effects of mould on human health will be explored, assessment and sampling strategies outlined and requirements for remediation described. [Registration required by Apr. 4th, 2012]

    Registration:

    Please send your RSVP and contact details by email, Attention:  Natalie De Sousa.

    If you would like to receive our notifications via email, please sign up at www.airzoneone.com/newsletter-sign-up/.

    ]]>     http://www.airzoneone.com/air-quality-breakfast-seminar-series-20112012/feed/ 0     Fall 2011 OHS Bulletin http://www.airzoneone.com/fall-2011-ohs-bulletin/ http://www.airzoneone.com/fall-2011-ohs-bulletin/#comments Fri, 09 Sep 2011 18:41:11 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=1179 Summer is all but over and most of us have returned to work after vacations.   It is important to remember to ease ourselves back into our jobs.   Remind yourself to think carefully and always be alert for occupational hazards.   These hazards can exist in many forms and employers and employees must know how to identify and monitor them.

    Chemical Hazards

    • Liquid (e.g. acids)
    • Dust (e.g. total, silica, wood dust)
    • Fume (e.g. metallic fume from welding operation)
    • Mist (e.g. oil mists)
    • Gas (e.g. CO, H2SO4, CH4)
    • Vapour (e.g. solvents such as toluene, acetone, formaldehyde)

    Physical Hazards

    • Noise
    • Vibration (i.e. whole body, hand/arm etc.)
    • Radiation (i.e. ionizing/non-ionizing)
    • Lighting (i.e. inadequate or inappropriate lighting)
    • Temperature Extremes (i.e. too hot or cold)
    • Pressure Extremes (i.e. in aviation and deep sea diving)

    Biological Hazards

    • Bacteria
    • Viruses
    • Fungi
    • Enzymes

    Ergonomic Hazards

    • Awkward posture, excessive force, increased frequency & duration of exposure as a result of:
    • Workplace design, or
    • Equipment design.

    Occupational Hygienists

    When is it necessary to use outside health professionals to assist with hazard identification, assessment, and mitigation?

    It is necessary to consult with a health professional such as an Occupational Hygienist, when an employer is no longer able to ensure:

    • The protection of employees
    • Compliance with provincial regulations
    • Complaints or requests regarding hazard exposure are addressed
    • Adequate engineering controls

    Why Hire an Occupational Hygienist?

    Hygienists are able to provide assistance with:

    • Identifying hazards
    • Monitoring worker exposure
    • Interpretation of results
    • Recommendations and solutions for unsafe work environments

    Hygienists are:

    • Professional
    • Reliable
    • Knowledgeable
    • Trusted
    • Ethical

    Worker Exposure Monitoring

    Airzone can provide assistance in assessing worker exposures to occupational hazards.   Our occupational hygienists have the knowledge and skills to assess work exposure to chemical, physical, and biological hazards.   We can also assist with health and safety program development.

    OHS Updates

    Reminder:   Ontario has updated O.Reg. 833 as of July 1st 2011.   Exposure limits for biological and chemical agents can be found in Table 1 of the regulation.   Should the agent not exist in Table 1, then the ACGIH Table applies and must be referenced.   Exposure cannot exceed the TWA, STEL, or Ceiling values.

    Bill 160

    The Occupational Health and Safety Statue Law Amendment Act received Royal Assent on June 1st, 2011.   As a result changes were made to the OHSA and the WSIA.   The primary change was that the Ministry of Labour has taken over responsibility for workplace injury and illness prevention from the WSIB.

    If you would like further information or if we can help you with any questions or assessments relating to occupational hygiene, please contact us and we will be more than happy to assist you with your needs.

    Ryan Dignard: (905)-890-6957   Ext. 103 or 416-892-6924

    Charles Geen: (905) -890-6957   Ext. 104

    ]]>     http://www.airzoneone.com/fall-2011-ohs-bulletin/feed/ 0     Airzone One Summer 2011 News Bulletin http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2011-news-bulletin/ http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2011-news-bulletin/#comments Mon, 25 Jul 2011 20:21:34 +0000 admin http://www.airzoneone.com/?p=1152 ONTARIO PROVINCIAL NEWS

    Registration of Activities Replaces CofAs for certain Emission Sources

    Beginning September 19, 2011 facilities will be able to register certain contaminant emitting activities rather than apply for a Provincial Certificate of Approval (CofA) from the Ministry of the Environment (MOE) under the new Registry Regulation O. Reg. 245/11 as part of the MOE s efforts to modernize the regulatory emissions permitting process.   At present, this is limited to: (i) Emergency generators, (ii) comfort heating systems, and, (iii) automotive refinishing (auto body shop spray booths).   However, the MOE intends to add to this list as experience grows.

    The registration of these activities avoids the requirements to carry-out an air and noise emission impact assessment for these sources when applying for a CofA.   However, certain pre-requisites must be met.   For example, heating systems must be less than 10 MMBTU/hr site-wide maximum heat input capacity, and emergency generators must not exceed 700 kW in rated capacity.   Also, certain requirements will be set (terms and conditions of registration).   For example, maintenance and complaints logs must be kept by registrants for heating systems; similar requirements will be imposed for emergency generators, in addition to sound attenuation and testing procedure requirements.

    New Version of AERMOD means Higher Contaminant POIs Predicted

    On February 28 this year the US EPA released an updated version of AERMOD (ver. 11059), the regulatory dispersion model adopted by the Ontario MOE as an acceptable model to demonstrate compliance for air emissions and used to assess compliance when applying for a CofA.  O. Reg. 419 requires that Ontario adopt this new US EPA model upon release and replaces the previous version (ver. 09292).

    The new version (further updated as ver. 11103) predicts higher impacts, in certain cases, than the previous version.   Thus, even if emissions remain constant, the new model may predict higher air quality impacts.

    This has important implications for a number of groups: (i) facilities that are required to update their ESDMs annually (Schedule 4 and 5 facilities), (ii) facilities holding Comprehensive (aka flexible) CofAs, and, (iii) facilities that are presently in the process of applying for CofA or amending a present CofA.

    The implications are especially important if predicted impacts were close to a contaminant limit (using the old version) as compliance may no longer be demonstrated under the new version.   Thus, further refinements may be required to emissions estimates, or dispersion modelling, or additional controls may need to be considered.

    Airzone can assess whether your activities qualify for registration and assist with the process and we can assess whether your compliance status will be affected because of the new AERMOD model.   Contact Franco DiGiovanni at ext. 102 (email) or Roy Sabino at ext. 107 (email).

    Facilities are Required to Develop Spills Contingency Plans

    While it is well know that environmental spills must be reported to the MOE, it is often overlooked that there is a legal requirement to develop and implement plans for spills, or abnormal discharges of pollutants (abnormal since they are not covered by CofAs).

    Certain classes of facilities are required to develop and implement plans to (i) prevent or reduce the risks of spills, and, (ii) prevent, eliminate or ameliorate any adverse effects that result or may result from the spill.  Regulation 224/07 sets out what should be included in spills prevention and contingency plans.   Plans must be retained on-site for possible inspection and must also be reviewed and updated annually.

    However, O. Reg. 675/98 defines classes of spills that are exempt from reporting and also from the need to develop and implement spills plans.   Different levels of exemptions exist for different classes of spills.   For example, spills from household fires are totally exempt from the Spills section of the Environmental Protection Act (Part X of the Act), whereas, a Class VIII gasoline spill (less than 100 L in a restricted area, or less than 25 L in a public area) are only exempt from certain reporting requirements under defined conditions.

    If you require assistance with determining whether spills planning applies to your operations, or with developing prevention or contingency plans contact Franco DiGiovanni at ext. 102 (email).

    CANADIAN FEDERAL NEWS

    Air Quality Management System (AQMS)

    The development of a Canadian Air Quality Management System has been on-going since 2009 and was introduced as an alternative to the Federal government s Turning the Corner plan (AQMS was originally known as the Comprehensive Air Management System, CAMS).

    The main elements of the new system are to: (1) set new Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), (2) set Base Level Industrial Emissions Requirements (BLIERS), (3) establish air quality management within so-called air zones, which will be Provincially led, and, (4) have the Federal government coordinate Airshed management (airsheds will contain a number of air zones).

    Initial CAAQS will be set for PM2.5 and ozone.   BLIERS are likely to be intensity-based emission standards applied to operations such as oil sands, aluminum, steel, pulp and paper, base metal smelting, cement, electricity generation, refineries, boilers and turbines.   The BLIERS will also likely be based on NOx, SOx VOCs and total particulate emissions.

    AIRZONE NEWS

    Our occupational health and safety specialists continue to assistance industrial clients with identifying worker exposures to airborne contaminants, including:  isocyanates, volatile organic compounds, particulate matter, silica, nuisance odours and noise in occupational settings.   Moreover, we have been characterizing and measuring chemicals in vapour intrusion studies, providing consulting, sampling and laboratory services.   Finally, our staff has been performing IAQ assessments in office settings for comfort and chemical parameters.

    Our permitting group continues to work on CofA s (air & noise) to ensure that companies meet regulatory requirements, specifically for the Federal and Municipal governments, the aerospace industry, automotive and furniture manufacturers and large office property owners, among other clients.   Staff has also completed NPRI and TRA annual emission reports for a large number of clients in various industrial sectors.

    Our lab continues to support our hygiene efforts analyzing aldehydes, PAHs and VOCs for our projects as well as for various private sector clients and government organizations.   We are also currently providing rapid on-site reduced sulphur compound analysis at a wastewater treatment facility.

    In addition, our staff has aided in international project training for operating HiVol samplers to characterize and quantifying persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the high Arctic.   This winter, we had the opportunity to act as QAQC for an international PCB and organochlorines compounds remediation study.

    Dr. Lucas Neil joined Airzone in the spring of 2011.   Dr. Neil s specialty is in aerosol science and technology, including chemical, optical and fluid dynamic properties of particles and their measurement with a variety of instrumentation.   Dr. Neil has commenced air modeling for CofAs and has helped initiate a continuous particulate monitoring project where data collection and interpretation from multiple sources is essential.

    Contact Franco DiGiovanni [ext. 102, email] or Phil Fellin (ext. 105) to enquire about these topics, or to review your air quality issues in light of new regulations.

    To subscribe to our newsletter via email please take a moment and sign up at www.airzoneone.com/newsletter-sign-up/.

    ]]>     http://www.airzoneone.com/summer-2011-news-bulletin/feed/ 0