Between November 20 and December 31, 2017, WorkSafeBC officers conducted the first phase of a three-phase ammonia inspection initiative.
Officers inspected ice rinks and recreational facilities that use ammonia as a refrigerant. The focus of the inspections was:
- risk assessment,
- exposure control plans,
- work procedures,
- emergency response and evacuation plans
Of the 223 sites inspected, 181 were using ammonia refrigeration systems. As a result of the inspections, officers issued 1,134 orders. Three compliance agreements were also created, and one (1) stop use order was issued.
The three most commonly cited orders were:
- OHSR 6.128(3)(a) – Monitoring and alarm systems tested at least monthly
- OHSR 6.129(2) – Pressure relief alarm systems
- OHSR 6.119 – Exposure Control Plan
Inspections in 2018
Phase two of this inspection initiative, now in progress, focuses on
- contractors conducting installations,
- maintenance, and
- other activities on ammonia systems
The focus in phase three will include workplaces other than recreational facilities and ice rinks that may be storing large quantities of ammonia on site. That phase will take place later in 2018.
More information and resources are available on the WorkSafe BC Ammonia page.
CAs allow WorkSafeBC to engage with responsive employers to improve workplace safety. In a CA, an employer voluntarily agrees to correct an OHS violation and report back to WorkSafeBC.
Stop Use Orders under section 190(1) may be written where an item that is being used in a workplace is not in safe operating condition or is not in compliance with the Act or the Regulation.