OH&S legislation exists in every Canadian province and territory, establishing rights and responsibilities for employers, supervisors, and workers. Its primary purpose is to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.

Provinces and territories each have specific regulations for refrigeration and air conditioning work. You must be familiar with the requirements in your jurisdiction.

• Licensing requirements for refrigeration mechanics
• Certification for handling specific refrigerants
• Inspection and permit requirements
• Reporting requirements for incidents and near misses

Many refrigerants are potent greenhouse gases or ozone-depleting substances. Environmental regulations govern their handling, recovery, and disposal.

• Proper recovery and recycling of refrigerants
• Prevention of refrigerant leaks
• Record-keeping requirements
• Disposal of contaminated materials

Governs the safe transportation of hazardous materials, including refrigerants. When transporting dangerous goods you must:

• Use proper containers approved for the specific material
• Ensure containers are properly labeled and placarded
• Carry appropriate shipping documents
• Follow emergency response procedures for spills or accidents
• Complete required training and certification

Establishes standards for electrical installations. Refrigeration and AC systems involve significant electrical work — you must understand electrical safety principles and work in compliance with the CEC.

• Wiring of compressors, fans, and control systems
• Installation of disconnects and overcurrent protection
• Grounding and bonding requirements
• Hazardous location requirements

Fire codes establish requirements for fire safety in buildings and facilities. Refrigeration mechanics must be aware of:

• Classification of refrigerants by flammability
• Quantity limits for flammable refrigerants in occupied spaces
• Ventilation requirements
• Fire suppression system requirements
• Hot work permits for brazing, welding, and cutting

CSA B51 governs the design, construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of boilers, pressure vessels, and piping systems. Many refrigeration systems operate under pressure and fall under this code.

• Certification of pressure vessels
• Regular inspections
• Pressure relief devices
• Operator certification requirements

Carbon pricing and reporting mechanisms aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, including those from high-GWP refrigerants.

• Refrigerant phase-out schedules
• Requirements to use low-GWP alternatives
• Carbon tax implications
• Reporting requirements for large systems

In Ontario, the TSSA is the regulatory body responsible for public safety related to technical standards, including refrigeration systems. Other provinces have equivalent bodies.

• Issues licenses and certifications
• Conducts inspections
• Investigates incidents
• Enforces compliance with codes and regulations

Building codes govern construction and renovation. Municipal codes may add locally specific requirements.

• Structural support requirements for equipment
• Clearances and access requirements
• Energy efficiency standards
• Permit and inspection requirements

Canada's national system for communicating hazardous product information in the workplace. WHMIS 2015 aligns with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals.

Provides insurance coverage for workplace injuries and illnesses.

• Mandatory coverage for most workers
• Employer reporting requirements for workplace injuries
• Benefits for injured workers
• Return-to-work programs