Is a CSP legally required in Ontario?

Under the OHSA and O.Reg. 213/91 (Construction Projects), the constructor must ensure a safety program is in place. While the regulation does not prescribe a specific document format, a written CSP is the standard of practice to demonstrate due diligence and is required for COR certification.

How often should a CSP be updated?

The CSP should be treated as a living document. Update it whenever a new trade mobilizes, a significant hazard is introduced, or after any serious incident. At minimum, review monthly on active projects.

Can one CSP cover multiple projects?

A generic template can serve as a starting point, but each project must have a site-specific CSP addressing the unique hazards, trades, site layout, and emergency procedures for that location. A copy-paste approach fails audits.

What standard governs LOTO in Ontario?

O.Reg. 851 (Industrial Establishments) s.75 requires measures to prevent equipment startup during maintenance. CSA Z460 "Control of Hazardous Energy" is the referenced standard of practice. Federally regulated workplaces follow Canada Labour Code Part II.

How often must LOTO procedures be audited?

CSA Z460 requires at least an annual audit of the LOTO program. Each procedure should be observed at least once per year. Any equipment modification, incident, or near-miss involving energy isolation should trigger an immediate review.

Pre-Start Health & Safety Review Ontario | O.Reg 851

Engineering-led PSR assessments for new or modified equipment, ensuring compliance with O.Reg. 851 s.7 before any machine is put into service.

When is a PSR legally required in Ontario?

O.Reg. 851 s.7 requires a PSR before any new or modified equipment is put into service if the equipment or process could endanger a worker. The PSR must be conducted by a competent person and, for complex equipment, typically requires a P.Eng.

Key Deliverables

PSR assessment report (P.Eng sealed)
Applicable standards identification matrix
Machine guarding compliance checklist
Electrical safety verification (CSA/UL)
Lockout/tagout procedure (machine-specific)

What triggers a PSR for existing equipment?

Any modification that could affect worker safety triggers a PSR: guard removal or alteration, control system changes, process changes, relocation, capacity increases, or changes to operating procedures. Routine maintenance does not trigger a PSR unless the repair changes the equipment function.

Compliance	OHSA, O.Reg 213/91, CSA Z462
Coverage	All Canadian provinces
Tiers	Basic, Standard, Premium