PPE and sanitation

The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development (MLITSD) has revised the Construction Projects Regulation (O. Reg. 213/91) to help make jobsites more hygienic and inclusive. Among other things, the changes require that:

• Larger jobsites have at least one women-only washroom.
• Toilet facilities be located closer to a given project work area.
• Washrooms be kept in good repair at all times.

“State of good repair” necessities for all washrooms have also been added, and include requirements for adequate lighting and ventilation, and hand sanitizer in cases where it is not reasonably possible to provide running water.

As well, personal protective equipment (PPE) must now fit according to workers’ varying body types. This means women in construction and other workers with diverse body types should be outfitted in properly fitting gear, including items such as uniforms and high-visibility clothing, boots, and safety harnesses.

Read the full amendment: O. Reg. 61/23

Electronic logging devices

Certain bus operators in Ontario are now required to use certified electronic logging devices (ELDs) to record their hours of service. Truck drivers working within the province have had to use ELDs since 2022. This latest change aligns Ontario’s commercial vehicle safety regulations with federal regulations, which require drivers of both commercial trucks and buses who cross provincial and territorial borders to use certified ELDs.

Read the full amendment: O. Reg. 555/06

Traffic control

In 2022, the Ministry of Transportation updated its Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 7 – Temporary Conditions. This latest version includes a new chapter on the transportation management planning process, new tools and tables to help determine appropriate layouts, and revisions to the book’s overall format.

Many changes have been made to account for modern conditions and hazards, such as roundabouts, pedestrian and cycling facilities, high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes, and updated speed limits.

Other changes affect considerations like:

• The length of tapers for traffic movement
• Sign reflectivity types
• Training requirements
• Dealing with unplanned events
• The use of automated flagger assistance devices

Download the new manual

Mining and mining plants

Changes to the Mines and Mining Plants Regulation (R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 854) introduced updated requirements for independently powered conveyances for transporting workers and enhancing safety for surface ladderways.

Workplaces are now also subject to improved ventilation and diesel equipment requirements, as well as lower allowable exposure limits for elemental carbon. And they must put in place programs to manage airborne hazards, major workplace changes, and the use of explosives under certain circumstances.

Read the full amendment: O. Reg. 69/23