Identification, assessment, and management of Ontario designated substances including asbestos, lead, silica, benzene, and other contaminants per O.Reg. 490/09.

What are Ontario designated substances?

Ontario regulates 11 designated substances under O.Reg. 490/09: acrylonitrile, arsenic, asbestos, benzene, coke oven emissions, ethylene oxide, isocyanates, lead, mercury, silica, and vinyl chloride. Each has specific exposure limits and management requirements.

Key Deliverables

Is a designated substances survey required before renovation?

Yes. O.Reg. 278/05 requires a survey before any demolition or renovation that may disturb building materials. The survey must be conducted by a competent person and include bulk sampling and laboratory analysis. Results must be shared with workers and contractors.

ComplianceOHSA, O.Reg 213/91, CSA Z462
CoverageAll Canadian provinces
TiersBasic, Standard, Premium

Last updated: March 2026