Hazardous Material Removal Licensing in Ontario

Asbestos removal in Ontario is regulated under Ontario Regulation 278/05 (Designated Substance - Asbestos on Construction Projects and in Buildings and Repair Operations). All workers and supervisors performing Type 3 asbestos abatement must be certified through approved training programs. The Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development must be notified before Type 3 and certain Type 2 operations begin. A Designated Substance Survey (DSS) report is required before renovation or demolition of buildings that may contain asbestos. Medical surveillance is required for workers involved in Type 2 and Type 3 operations. Mold remediation follows IICRC S520 standards. Lead paint abatement must comply with Ontario Regulation 490/09 for lead exposure.

Ask for proof of approved asbestos training certification. Confirm they file required Ministry notifications before starting work.

(1) No worker certification for Type 3 asbestos operations - this is a legal requirement in Ontario (2) Does not perform or require a Designated Substance Survey before starting work (3) No third-party air clearance testing after asbestos removal (4) For mold remediation, does not identify and address the moisture source causing the mold (5) Cuts corners on containment - improper containment spreads contamination to clean areas

(1) Are your workers certified for Type 3 asbestos abatement in Ontario? (2) Will you perform a Designated Substance Survey before starting removal? (3) Who conducts the post-removal air clearance testing, and is it an independent third party? (4) How will waste be disposed of, and which approved facility will you use? (5) Do you carry pollution liability insurance in addition to general liability?

For hazardous material removal work in Ontario, you may need the following permits: Ministry of Labour Notification, Municipal Demolition Permit. Before any renovation of a home built before 1990, ask your contractor about asbestos testing. A Designated Substance Survey can identify hazardous materials before work begins.

Yes, hazardous material removals in Ontario are expected to carry liability insurance and WSIB coverage.

Typical rates for hazardous material removals in Ontario range from $75-$150/hour (crew rate). Type of hazardous material (asbestos, mold, lead paint), operation classification (Type 1, 2, or 3 for asbestos in Ontario), area affected in square footage, severity and friability of the material, containment requirements, air monitoring and clearance testing costs, waste disposal fees, number of workers and safety equipment required, and whether the material is accessible or requires demolition to reach. Type 3 asbestos operations (friable material over 1 sq m) are the most expensive due to full containment, negative air pressure, and decontamination requirements.