Request a Free Quote
If a designated substance survey is not completed ahead of a construction or demolition project in Ontario, there could be serious consequences, including fines and costly project delays. If you are working on a project that requires you to break down existing building materials, you should always ensure you get a designated substance survey report (DSS Report) to identify any potential hazards on-site before bringing in contractors and workers.
A designated substance is one of eleven substances defined via the Occupational Health and Safety Act as a “biological, physical, or chemical agent” that can result in serious harm if proper control measures are not in place. Asbestos and silica are examples of physical substances on the list, while others like Arsenic, Mercury, Lead, and Benzene are chemical in nature.
You should submit a DSS report before you break ground on your construction project, or even before you start planning. In Ontario, property owners are responsible for properly communicating to construction contractors the potential risks on the property. If a DSS report is not completed, property owners risk “stop work” orders being issued by the Ministry of Labour, your contractors and subcontractors can refuse unsafe work (which is within their rights). Delays can cause costly derailment of project plans. By making a designated substance survey a priority earlier on in your planning process, you can ensure that property safety precautions are in place and that your construction is compliant.
Book Your Designated Substance Survey with Inch By Inch Inspections.
