A guide to designated substances in the workplace
Learn what employers are required to do under Ontario Regulation 490/09 – Designated Substances to limit the risks of exposure to harmful substances.
Overview
This guide provides:
- an overview of the requirements of O. Reg. 490/09 – Designated Substances under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
- guidance with respect to conducting an assessment and setting up a control program, including information on:
- types of controls
- personal protective equipment
- air monitoring
- record keeping
- medical surveillance programs
The guide is intended to assist workplace parties with compliance, but does not cover every situation or answer every question about the legal requirements concerning designated substances in Ontario.
The guide does not replace the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations, and should not be used as or considered legal advice. Health and safety inspectors apply the law based on the facts in the workplace.
In order to understand your legal rights and duties, you must read the official versions of OHSA and the regulations on e-laws.
Unless otherwise specified, the sections referenced throughout this document relate to O. Reg. 490/09 – Designated Substances.