Ontario Environmental Laws for Automotive Shops (Article)

Copyright Kay's Auto Shop

Compliance with Ontario’s environmental law is an essential part of creating a safe and healthy environment within your automotive business.   Because of the nature of this industry, many hazardous chemicals and machinery may be present within the work area.    According to the Ontario energy board, there are several key areas which must be addressed in order to ensure compliance with Ontario Environmental Protection Act.   It is imperative to understand the cradle-to-grave control system which reduces hazardous risk and exposure to chemicals by reducing off-gassing and preventing bad chemical reactions.  Automotive shops must comply in the collection, storage, transportation, handling, recovery, and disposal of chemical compounds within their facility.

Air Quality

If you examine the inventory of a truck shop, you will find that employees are regularly exposed to chemicals that contain controlled substances, gasses, flammable liquids, and volatile organic compounds.  Consistent exposure to chemical compounds significantly reduces the air quality and increases the risk of deadly inhalation and physical contact with the substance.   Adequate ventilation is essential to maintaining an acceptable air quality for employees and customers. 

Collection and Storage

Proper storage and management of chemicals and waste is one of the most important elements in compliance with environmental law.   While licensed transporter is required to deliver hazardous materials and fluids, each truck shop should conduct a self-audit to ensure that hazardous liquids are stored in approved containers with secondary containment field, lids are sealed, and all containers are properly labeled.   Although not required, flammables and other volatile compounds should be stored in an air-tight metal or outside vented cabinet and are grounded or bonded so as not to be exposed to static electricity when being moved or transferred. 

Transportation, Handling, Recovery and Disposal

A truck shop will often produce an excessive amount waste.   One of the most vital elements of compliance with environmental law is the proper disposal and handling of hazardous waste.   Because waste oils, antifreeze and other such chemicals are dangerous to your health and to the environment, it is recommended to use a licensed transporter or oil management program for disposal.     Spills and leaks must be cleaned up on a daily basis, and responded to immediately.  If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface, an absorbent should be used to minimize the impact of the spill on the environment.    Shipments of waste oil, antifreeze and refrigerants must be documented and retained for at least two years.   Other fluids, batteries, and tires should be recovered and recycled but do not require documentation. 

Keyword:  Truck Shop, Automotive shops
Tone:  Professional

Descriptive: Journalistic, Informational

Size: 400+ 

References:  

http://www.ec.gc.ca/lcpe-cepa/eng/regulations/?n=54FE5535-1 CEPA Regulations

http://carec.ca/CAREC_Jan2012.pdf