Pre-Start Health and Safety Reviews (PSR) in Ontario: Ensuring Workplace Compliance

What is a Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (PSR)?

A Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (PSR) is a mandatory engineering evaluation required under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and Regulation 851 for industrial establishments. A PSR ensures that new or modified equipment, processes, or protective elements meet safety standards before operation.

Non-compliance with PSR requirements can result in severe penalties, workplace accidents, and operational shutdowns. HITE Engineering specializes in conducting thorough PSRs to help businesses achieve compliance and maintain workplace safety.

When is a PSR Required?

A PSR is required when installing or modifying any of the following:

✅ Safeguarding Devices – Machine guarding, interlocks, and light curtains.
✅ Flammable Liquids and Hazardous Chemicals – Storage, handling, and ventilation systems.
✅ Lifting Devices and Material Handling Equipment – Cranes, hoists, and conveyors.
✅ Dust Collection Systems – Explosion-proof requirements for combustible dust hazards.
✅ Process Equipment and Pressurized Systems – Boilers, pressure vessels, and chemical processing units.

Key Compliance Requirements for PSRs

1. Regulatory Compliance & Engineering Controls

Ontario’s OHSA Regulation 851, Section 7, mandates a PSR before operating specific equipment or systems. Compliance requires:
✅ Engineering Evaluations – A professional engineer must assess risks and safety measures.
✅ Risk Assessments – Hazard identification and mitigation strategies.
✅ Fire and Explosion Protection – NFPA and CSA compliance for hazardous materials.

2. Machine Guarding & Worker Safety

✅ Proper Safeguarding – Fixed and interlocked guards to prevent injuries.
✅ Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) Procedures – Ensuring de-energization during maintenance.
✅ Emergency Stop Functions – Accessible and functional e-stop mechanisms.

3. Fire & Chemical Hazard Management

✅ Flammable Liquid Storage – Compliance with Ontario Fire Code and NFPA 30.
✅ Chemical Handling & Ventilation – Proper air exchange and hazardous material containment.
✅ Spill Containment Measures – Secondary containment and emergency response plans.

Industries That Require PSRs

HITE Engineering provides customized PSR solutions for various industries, including:

🏭 Manufacturing & Automotive – Machine safety, robotic cells, and assembly line modifications.
🔬 Pharmaceutical & Chemical Processing – Flammable substance handling and explosion-proof systems.
📦 Warehousing & Distribution – Conveyor safety and lifting equipment compliance.
🍽 Food & Beverage – High-temperature processing, ammonia refrigeration, and confined spaces.

HITE Engineering’s PSR Expertise

With extensive experience in occupational safety and engineering compliance, HITE Engineering provides:
✔ Comprehensive PSR Evaluations – Assessments by licensed professional engineers.
✔ Regulatory Guidance – Ensuring compliance with Ontario OHSA, NFPA, CSA, and TSSA regulations.
✔ Corrective Action Plans – Detailed recommendations to address non-compliance issues.
✔ Training & Implementation Support – Employee safety training and procedural development.

The Consequences of Non-Compliance

🚨 Legal & Financial Penalties – Fines and liability under OHSA for non-compliant equipment.
⚠ Increased Workplace Risks – Potential for injuries, fires, and equipment failures.
⏳ Operational Delays – Regulatory inspections leading to costly work stoppages.

Stay Compliant with HITE Engineering

Don’t let regulatory challenges slow down your business. HITE Engineering provides expert PSR services to keep your operations safe and compliant.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your facility meets Ontario’s PSR and workplace safety requirements.