Under Ontario Regulation 851, Section 7, a Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (PHSR/PSR) may be required when specific equipment, structures, protective elements, or processes are introduced or modified in a factory.

Trigger 1: Flammable Liquids

A PHSR may be required when more than 235 litres of flammable liquids are stored in a building or room, or when flammable liquids are dispensed in a building, room, or area. 

Trigger 2: Machine Safeguarding and Protective Devices

A PHSR may be required for safeguarding devices that stop machinery when a hazard is detected, including barrier guards equipped with interlocking mechanical or electrical safeguarding devices. 

Trigger 3: Racking and Stacking Structures

A PHSR may be required when materials, articles, or other items are stored on certain racking or stacking structures. 

Trigger 4: Processes with Ignition or Explosion Hazards

A PHSR may be required when a process creates an ignition or explosion hazard that presents an imminent risk to worker health or safety. 

Trigger 5: Dust Collection Systems with Ignition or Explosion Hazards

A PHSR may be required for certain dust collection systems when their use creates an ignition or explosion hazard that presents an imminent risk to worker health or safety. 

Trigger 6: Molten Metal Operations

A PHSR may be required for factories or foundries that produce, melt, or handle molten metals such as aluminum or steel. 

Trigger 7: Cranes, Lifting Devices, Vehicle Lifts, and Hoists

A PHSR may be required for certain travelling, overhead, monorail, gantry, and jib cranes, as well as other lifting devices supported by a structure, vehicle lifts, and hoists. 

Trigger 8: Hazardous Biological or Chemical Agents with Ventilation Controls

A PHSR may be required when a process uses or produces a hazardous biological or chemical agent and relies on ventilation to control worker exposure in accordance with applicable exposure limits.