Asbestos Control Policy
The University of Toronto is committed to promoting the
health, safety and well-being of its employees, students, visitors and
contractors.
Asbestos, a fibrous material commonly used in building
materials prior to 1980 because of its heat-resistant, chemical-resistant and
insulative properties, continues to be present in a number of University
buildings, in the form of sprayed fireproofing, insulation around piping and
mechanical equipment, thermal and acoustic boards, plasters, asbestos cement
products, and floor and ceiling tiles. Serious health problems, such as
asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, are associated with inhalation of
harmful levels of asbestos fibres.
Recognizing the hazards that may arise when asbestos fibres
become airborne as a result of disturbance or deterioration, the University is
committed to the strict management of all asbestos-containing materials in
University buildings, and any activities which may disturb such materials. The
University has the responsibility to ensure that stringent controls are in
place to prevent the potential exposure of individuals to harmful levels of
asbestos.
This Policy applies to all buildings and structures owned by
the University of Toronto, to all employees and students of the University, to
occupants of University buildings, and to external organizations who may come
in contact with or disturb asbestos-containing materials in University
buildings.
The University is committed to achieving the following
objectives:
- To exercise due diligence in protecting University
employees from the potential health risks associated with hazardous exposure to
airborne asbestos fibres;
- To provide a safe and healthy work and study environment
for employees, students, contractors and visitors, in accordance with the
University's Health and Safety Policy;
- To comply with the legislated requirements outlined under
the Regulation respecting Asbestos on Construction Projects and in Buildings
and Repair Operations (O.Reg. 838, RRO 1990 (as amended)), made under the
Occupational Health and Safety Act of Ontario;
- To comply with this Policy and the University's Asbestos
Control Program.
The eventual removal of all friable asbestos-containing
materials from University buildings is a long-term objective. In the mean time,
the University will manage all asbestos hazards based on prioritization and an
assessment of risk. Priority for asbestos removal will be assigned as follows:
- All friable asbestos-containing materials will be removed
prior to any demolition activity which may result in their disturbance.
- Friable asbestos-containing materials which have been
damaged to the extent that repair measures are not expected to effectively
maintain the material in good condition are to be removed.
- Consideration must be given to the proactive removal of
friable asbestos-containing materials during major renovation projects, or
during any major asbestos removal work.
Under the authority of the Asbestos Control Policy:
- The University will establish an Asbestos Control Program
which will outline a comprehensive system to actively manage and stringently
control all asbestos-containing materials in University buildings, and all
activities which may disturb such materials, including maintenance, alteration,
and repair operations.
- The Program will clearly define and communicate the
responsibilities of all workplace parties involved in its development,
administration and implementation.
- In keeping with the University's Health and Safety
Policy, individuals who fail to meet their obligations as outlined in the
Program, may, depending on the circumstances, face appropriate discipline or
sanctions.
- The Program may be amended from time to time by
University administration in consultation with appropriate union
representatives, provided it remains consistent with the Policy.
- The Vice-President, Human Resources, will report on
asbestos-related issues to the Business Board, pursuant to the Business Board
Terms of Reference.