Variance applications for non-compliant labs must be submitted by July 1, 2025
TSSA has determined that accredited training providers with laboratories or training areas that do not comply with the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000 must submit variance applications to the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) by July 1, 2025, and achieve regulatory compliance by the end of their next audit cycle.
TSSA is waiving the fee for the variance application which must provide a list of non-compliances found in the laboratory or training area and the safety mitigations used to comply with the Code.
Background
TSSA’s review of its audit process for accredited training providers found that some equipment and laboratories used to train students may be non-compliant with applicable regulations and adopted Codes.
As there is no exemption in the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000 or its associated regulations and Codes that would permit the operation of non-compliant training equipment or laboratory, TSSA proposes to work with accredited training providers to bring these labs or training areas into compliance with the adopted Fuels Codes.
As a first step, accredited training providers should submit an application for a variance under section 36(3)(c) of the Act. To further assist compliance, TSSA is waiving the fee to apply for a variance and giving a six-month window for such applications.
How to Submit a Variance Application
- Complete the Application for a Variance/Deviation (Except Non-Certified Plastic Venting) – FS-004-v4. The variance application must provide the following information:
- A list of non-compliances with applicable Codes found in the laboratory or training area, such as:
- Venting not being compliant (as common venting may be used);
- Burner replacement that is not within the approval scope of the appliance; and
- Any other non-compliances contained within the laboratory or the setting where practical training is provided.
- Safety mitigations used instead of Code compliance, for example:
- Supervised instruction at all times by a TSSA certificate holder;
- A master shut-off valve that is clearly identified and readily accessible within the laboratory;
- Carbon monoxide alarm; and
- Any other safety mitigation incorporated into the laboratory setting (see Appendix A).
2. In the “For Office Use Only” section at the top right corner of the form, indicate “Training Provider Variance — Fee Waived”.
3. Submit the variance application to fssubmissions@tssa.org by July 1, 2025.
4. The variance inspection will be conducted on the applicant’s next TSSA training provider audit. A variance will be issued so long as the Director and/or their delegate are satisfied that the mitigations permit the laboratory or equipment to operate safely.
See Appendix A for additional mitigations in the Gas Technician 3 (G3) Instructional Lab Standard, or visit Accredited Training Providers in the Fuels Industry Professionals webpage.
For questions, please contact TSSA’s Customer Service Centre at customerservices@tssa.org or call 1-877-682-8772.