Ontario Toxics Law: Draft Reg Released

Yesterday, the Ontario government released a draft regulation proposed under the provincial Toxics Reduction Act, 2009 (passed by the Ontario Legislature in June). The regulation sets out a framework for toxics reduction actions by facilities. Among other things, the regulation outlines: which substances are designated as "toxic"; the class of facilities (i.e., sectors) that would be subject to the requirements of the Act and regulation; substance quantity and employee thresholds; details on tracking, quantification, and reporting requirements; provisions for exempting the owner and operator from toxic substance accounting; additional requirements and clarity about the toxic substance reductions plans described in the Act; and what information must be provided to the public. The proposed regulation has been posted on the Environmental Registry for public comment until October 19, 2009.