Hazardous Materials in Workplaces: Why Ontario Fire Code Compliance Matters

When most people think about workplace safety, they picture hard hats, training sessions, or protective equipment. But one of the most overlooked risks in Ontario workplaces comes from something far more common: hazardous materials.

From cleaning agents in offices, to solvents in maintenance shops, compressed gases in labs, and flammable products in warehouses—hazardous materials are everywhere. For health and safety professionals and workplaces alike, managing these materials is more than awareness. It’s about risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and emergency preparedness.

Why Hazardous Materials Demand Attention

Hazardous materials carry fire, explosion, health, and environmental risks. If mismanaged, they can cause serious incidents, harm workers, and even shut down operations.

Health and safety professionals play a critical role in:

• Identifying and documenting hazardous materials.

• Training staff in safe handling and disposal.

• Building strong emergency management procedures.

But there’s another layer that can’t be ignored: Ontario Fire Code compliance.

Fire Code Compliance: A Vital Layer of Protection

The Ontario Fire Code sets clear requirements for the safe storage and use of hazardous materials. These include:

• Proper labeling and signage so workers and first responders know the risks.

• Fire-rated storage rooms and cabinets when hazardous quantities are present.

• Limits on allowable quantities in certain occupancies.

• Emergency procedures and fire safety plans tailored to each workplace.

• Regular inspections and documentation to demonstrate compliance.

• Weekly, monthly internal inspections and numerous annual inspections and more.

For managers and supervisors, compliance with the Fire Code is as essential as meeting Occupational Health and Safety Act obligations.

The Health and Safety Professional’s Role

Health and safety professionals in Ontario workplaces are often the ones bridging the gap between worker safety and fire safety compliance. Their responsibilities include:

• Documenting hazardous materials and assessing risks.

• Coordinating with property management, joint health and safety committees (JHSCs), and emergency services.

• Developing and testing fire safety and emergency response plans.

• Acting as internal champions for compliance, ensuring organizations are proactive—not reactive.

By fulfilling these duties, they don’t just protect people. They help organizations remain legally defensible, resilient, and prepared.

Technical Support When It’s Needed

Managing hazardous materials and fire code compliance can be complex—especially in large, mixed-use, or high-risk facilities. This is where specialized technical support is invaluable.

At National Life Safety Group, we work alongside health and safety professionals to provide:

• Fire Engineering Assessments and Life Safety Studies

• Hazardous materials compliance reviews.

• Ontario Fire Code assessments.

• Fire safety planning and technical documentation.

• Emergency response program development.

• Preventative Maintenance Programs

We don’t replace the vital work of safety professionals—we support it with deep technical expertise, ensuring workplaces meet both occupational health and fire code obligations.

About National Life Safety Group

National Life Safety Group (NLS Group) is a Toronto-based leader in fire safety, hazardous materials compliance, and emergency management solutions. We partner with building owners, property managers, and health and safety professionals across Ontario to go beyond “minimum compliance” and create defensible, high-performing safety programs that protect people, property, and reputation.

Our expertise includes:

• 🔹 Fire Engineering & Ontario Fire Code Consulting

• 🔹 Emergency Management Planning & Training

• 🔹 Occupational Health & Safety Program Development

• 🔹 Physical Security Assessments & Compliance

With offices in Toronto, Ontario, and Niagara Region, our team provides trusted technical support to condominiums, apartments, commercial properties, and workplaces of all sizes. Whether you need a Fire Safety Plan, hazardous materials compliance review, or emergency preparedness program, National Life Safety Group ensures your organization is compliant, resilient, and prepared.