TORONTO, ON, January 13, 2025 – Carbon monoxide (CO) continues to be a leading cause of accidental poisoning in Ontario. With approximately 65% of all CO incidents occurring in people’s homes, TSSA urges everyone to be ‘WinterWise’ this season and learn about how they can protect themselves against this invisible, odourless and highly poisonous gas - often dubbed the ‘Silent Killer’.
As part of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority’s (TSSA’s) ongoing efforts to build CO awareness in communities across the province, residents in parts of Southwestern, Eastern and Northeastern Ontario regions will be receiving a copy of an important safety booklet – WinterWise – this week. This campaign, together with the ongoing public education efforts of community fire and emergency services departments, provides vital information to assist residents in reducing CO risks in their homes.
“During the cold weather months there’s naturally an increased use of furnaces and fireplaces, and even though these fuel-burning appliances may be safely designed, they can emit deadly levels of CO gas if not properly installed, inspected and maintained regularly,” says Kelly Hart, TSSA’s Director of Fuels Safety. “While CO presents serious hazards, residents can essentially eliminate any potential harm, by taking these two important steps,” adds Hart.
- Have all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually through the services of a TSSA-registered fuel contractor
- to find a TSSA-registered contractor near you use the Find A Registered Fuels Contractor Tool at cosafety.ca.
- Install certified CO alarms in your home, regularly test and replace them in accordance with manufacturer’s instruction.
“It’s also important to remember to never use any fuel-burning appliances indoors that are specifically designed and approved for outdoor use only,” adds Hart.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about CO and other seasonal safety topics by reading and sharing the information in the WinterWise booklet and by visiting COsafety.ca – a website dedicated to providing critical CO safety information.
TSSA continues to partner with local fire and emergency services and other safety-minded organizations to deliver critical CO safety information to residents in communities across Ontario.
The attached backgrounder provides additional information on carbon monoxide.
Stay one step ahead of CO – Beat the Silent Killer. Take Action. Think Safe. COsafety.ca
About TSSA
The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is one of Ontario’s public safety regulators mandated by the Government of Ontario to enforce provincial safety regulations and enhance public safety. Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education and consumer information, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support and enforcement and prosecution activities. The organization’s vision is to be a valued advocate and recognized authority in public safety.
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For more information or to arrange media availability, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President, Communications, Stakeholder Engagement and Customer Service
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
Email: media@tssa.org
For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, visit www.tssa.org.
As summer rolls around, amusement parks are not the only places opening their doors for a season of thrill and fun.
With summer upon us, event organizers in schools, camps, townships, municipalities and shopping malls may be holding various events that involve amusement and inflatable devices like bouncy castles to draw crowds, raise funds or simply generate excitement.
Renting amusement and inflatable devices from licensed owners who drop off these devices on their customers’ premises can create safety gaps, such as failing to ensure these devices are installed properly and operated by trained attendants.
Before renting inflatable devices, it’s important to be aware of the safety requirements you need to comply with and how to ensure the amusement and inflatable devices on your premises are operated safely.
Staying in ComplianceTo help event organizers understand their safety obligations, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) provides the following information on what they need to know and do when operating rented amusement and inflatable devices in non-private dwellings: Installation Training 1. The date of the training - The amusement device attendant on site should be able to provide the required documentation for the device, including the training records of that attendant, if TSSA conducts an operational inspection. Attendant Responsibilities For more information, refer to the following resources: |
Photo Caption: Ontario Regulation 221/01 (Amusement Devices) does not apply if the rented amusement devices are operated in private dwellings (including the land upon which the private dwellings are situated) and used exclusively by the owner or occupants and their guests. Private events held in churches, schools and parks are not considered private dwellings. Amusement and inflatable devices that are not used in a private dwelling must comply with O. Reg 221/01.
As summer heats up, nothing is more thrilling than an exhilarating trip to an amusement park. Whether you're a roller coaster enthusiast, a go-kart driver, or a zip line adventurer, following safety guidelines is the best way to make your amusement park experience fun – and worry-free.
Here are five ride smart tips to keep in mind for a safe summer at amusement parks:
1. Follow Age, Height, Weight, and Health Restrictions
Before hopping onto any ride, spend some time to read the posted age, height, weight, and health restrictions. Meeting the physical requirements for the ride's intensity will keep you safe.
2. Observe All Posted Safety Rules
Each amusement ride has its own set of safety rules. Follow all instructions provided by ride operators and any recorded announcements or signs. These guidelines are meant to protect you, so always pay attention to them.
3. Secure Your Posture
Keep your hands, arms, legs, and feet inside the ride or water slide at all times. Never stand when the ride is in motion and stay seated until told by a ride operator to exit.
4. Use Safety Equipment Properly
Amusement parks provide various safety devices like seat belts and lap bars to keep you secure. Always use these safety devices as intended and never attempt to loosen or remove them while the ride is in motion.
5. Avoid Using Phones on Rides
Avoid using cell phones on rides. Distractions like texting, answering calls, taking photos or videos could lead to accidents. Besides, phones can slip out of your hands or pockets, causing potential harm to yourself or other riders. Be sure to stow your phones safely, along with other loose items, including wallets, sunglasses, cell phones, and hats.
Safety is essential for maximum amusement park fun. This summer, make sure you're the safety superhero for yourself and your family. Keep the excitement high and the worries low by adhering to safety measures on every ride.
TORONTO, ON, May 16, 2024 – As Ontarians prepare to marshal in the unofficial start of the summer season, with BBQs leading the march, make sure to light it right when you light it up this May ‘2-4’ long weekend…..and beyond.
Get Ready. Get Set. Get Sizzling…safely by keeping these fuel-burning BBQ safety tips in mind:
Clean It, Check It and Test It
- Clean all burner ports and tubes. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to ensure burner ports are free of rust, dirt, spider webs or other debris.
- Examine the hose leading from the tank to the burners. Replace if cracked or damaged.
Find leaks by applying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap to propane cylinder connections and hoses. If bubbles appear, it could mean gas is leaking out. Tighten the connection and/or replace the damaged parts and retest before using your BBQ.
Light It Right
- Place your BBQ or grill on a level surface in a well-ventilated area.
- Make sure there are no combustible materials near your BBQ.
- Never lean over the grill when you are lighting it.
- Open the hood and keep it open until the BBQ is lit.
- Turn the gas release valve on. Turn on the burner controls or heat settings.
- Take a step back.
- Push the igniter button or use a barbecue lighter.
If it does not ignite right away, turn the gas off and wait five minutes, keeping the lid open before you try again.
Keep It Outdoors
- Always barbecue outside in a well-ventilated area – BBQs are approved for outdoor use ONLY. They emit carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can lead to unconsciousness and even death.
- Don’t position your BBQ too close to wooden or vinyl fences or walls. Make sure the area behind your BBQ is free of combustible material, since this is where hot gases escape.
Don’t use or store propane cylinders inside any structure.
Stay Safe
- BBQs are intended to be attended.
- Never leave your grill unsupervised while it’s in use.
- Keep kids and pets away from the BBQ. Position a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency.
- Keep any flammable items/liquids away from the BBQ. This includes the use of hand sanitizers.
- Never lean over a grill when it’s in use.
- Don’t allow grease to build up on the burners, lid or at the base of the BBQ as this could cause a grease fire.
Never throw water on a grease fire – this will only spread the flame.
BBQing on a Balcony
Ontarians living in apartments and condominiums should be aware of additional safety restrictions and potential hazards related to BBQ use on balconies. Barbecues may be prohibited by the municipality or in the Condominium bylaws of your building or prohibited by the building owner or property manager, so be sure you are aware of any restrictions in place for your building.
IF permitted to BBQ on your balcony:
- Your balcony must be open, with no enclosures or walls that could restrict airflow.
- You must keep your propane cylinder on the balcony and connected to your barbecue.
- Keep your barbecue clear of any combustible material.
- Make sure the propane cylinder’s relief valve is at least one metre from any building opening. Also make sure it is three metres from any mechanical air intake.
When transporting a propane cylinder to your apartment or condo, you must use a service elevator. If your building has no service elevators, you may use the passenger elevator, but you must be alone in the elevator.
For additional BBQ safety tips, download a copy of our BBQ Safety Tips brochure or check out and share our animated safety videos. For more information on barbecue safety visit us at www.tssa.org.
About TSSA
Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) enforces provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support, enforcement and prosecution activities.
PARTNERING FOR A SAFE ONTARIO
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For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President Communications,
Stakeholder Engagement and
Customer Service
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
email:media@tssa.org
As the snow melts and spring showers become more frequent, the risk of flooding increases, causing potential hazards related to fuels equipment and elevators. Additionally, disruptions to major energy systems during floods may prompt people to use unsafe power generation alternatives.
TSSA advises Ontarians to stay alert to these hazards when floods occur and follow these safety tips:
- Never use outdoor fuel-fired appliances indoors, as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and other dangers.
- Keep generators away from open windows, doors, and vents when using them outdoors to prevent carbon monoxide from infiltrating living spaces.
- Avoid using portable fuel-burning devices like generators and propane BBQs in enclosed areas such as garages or covered patios, as this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.
- Exercise caution when using commercial ventilating fans to dry out a basement, as this could create negative pressure, allowing carbon monoxide from household appliances to re-enter the home. Ensure proper ventilation during this process.
- Refrain from using elevators in flooded buildings, as water accumulation in elevator shafts or disruptions to operation could result in entrapment or injury.
Visit TSSA.org/Seasonal-Flooding-Safety to read more about seasonal flooding safety. If you're unsure about the safety of specific TSSA-regulated devices during floods, contact TSSA for assistance.
With winter upon us, what could be cozier than basking in the warmth of fireplaces, furnaces and outdoor heaters? Yet, it is vital to ensure that your home heating appliances and systems are operating at their best. Failure to do so could expose you and your loved ones to the ‘Silent Killer’—Carbon Monoxide (CO)—often without awareness.
While CO presents serious hazards, you can protect yourself and your family from harm by following these guidelines throughout the cold winter months.
Demystify the ‘Silent Killer’
CO is an invisible, odourless, and tasteless poisonous gas that can pose a deadly risk if not managed properly. Common household fuel-burning appliances like furnaces, fireplaces, gas stoves, propane heaters, kerosene lanterns, can be sources of CO. Approximately 65% of all CO injuries and deaths in Ontario occur in people’s homes. Remember, it’s not just your furnace or fireplace; many Ontario homes can have between 4-6 fuel-burning appliances that produce CO.
Address the Hazard at the Source
Schedule regular inspections for your home's fuel-burning appliances and equipment through the services of a TSSA-registered fuels contractor, which can be conveniently located using TSSA’s lookup tool.
Equip Your Home with Functioning, Certified CO Alarms
Install certified CO alarms, test them regularly and replace them as needed and in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. These alarms serve as an early warning system that provides time to take life-saving measures.
Recognize CO Poisoning Symptoms
Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of CO poisoning, which can mimic the flu – but without the fever. If symptoms like nausea, headache, burning eyes, confusion, or drowsiness appear, evacuate everyone, including pets, to fresh air and call 911.
Never Operate Indoors Any Fuel-Burning Appliance Designed for Outdoor Use
Do not use indoors any fuel-burning appliances that are designed for outdoor use only, such as propane or kerosene-fueled heaters, bbqs, etc., as this can lead to lethal CO exposure, fires, and other health hazards.
Quick Tips for Maintaining Home Heating Systems
Whether you prefer a hands-on approach or opt for professional assistance in maintaining your home heating system, here are some quick tips for you:
Do it Yourself:
- Regularly inspect the heating system for signs of deterioration, such as water stains, corrosion, or leakage.
- Routinely clean furnace air filters in forced-air systems. Maintain a clear zone around the furnace area to prevent materials from catching fire or exploding due to excessive heat.
- Ensure that warm-air outlets and cold-air outlets are unobstructed. In case snow or ice covers your outdoor gas meter or external appliance vent pipe, remove it carefully with a car brush or broom.
- Don’t scrape the meter or vent pipe with a sharp instrument, as this may cause unintended damage.
Seek Professional Support:
- If the heating system malfunctions, check the electrical fuse, switch, and thermostat before contacting a TSSA-registered fuels contractor.
- Never allow uncertified gas technicians and unregistered contractors to tamper with or conduct work on heating systems.
For additional safety information and resources, visit cosafety.ca. Here's to a secure and warm winter season.
TSSA Reports Significant Decline in Permanent Injuries for 2023
2023 Public Safety Report Now Available at TSSA.org
Toronto, ON, September 22, 2023 – In its 2023 Annual Public Safety Report, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) reported a significant reduction in permanent injuries within its regulated sectors for the 2023 fiscal year. The report, released during TSSA’s Annual Public Meeting alongside its 2023 Annual Report, revealed a consistently stable safety environment in Ontario.
“Our data shows the state of safety in the province seems to be improving,” said Viola Dessanti, Director of Strategic Analytics, TSSA. “While the results of the previous two years were impacted by COVID-related closures, this year’s number of permanent injuries shows a significant decrease, when compared to the five-year pre-pandemic average. We hope this is a continuing trend.”
State of Safety Snapshot
As Ontario’s public safety regulator, TSSA enforces technical safety regulations that govern the amusement devices, boilers, pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts sectors. TSSA's Public Safety Report presents complete and comprehensive metrics and results that inform its regulatory approach to enhancing public safety in the province.
During the reporting period (May 1, 2022, to April 30, 2023, TSSA’s 2023 fiscal year, which will be referred to as 2023 hereinafter), permanent injuries dropped by more than 30 per cent compared to the 10-year average.
TSSA categorizes potential issues found during inspections as either high-risk orders or safety tasks. Over the past five years (2019-2023), 90 per cent of periodic inspections found no high-risk issues, while 27.5 per cent of periodic inspections found no issues at all.
Enhancing Safety as an Outcome-Based Regulator
“TSSA has launched a number of outcome-based regulatory initiatives over the past three years that have improved safety in the province,” said Bonnie Rose, President and CEO, TSSA. “Compliance Standards are one of these efforts, which we have now expanded to cover more devices and integrated within our IT business solution. Doing so equips us with additional data insights to strengthen our regulatory oversight.”
TSSA introduced new Compliance Standards for passenger elevators (hydraulic and traction), ski lifts, and escalators in 2023. The compliance standards are designed to direct owners, contractors, mechanics and inspectors of these devices towards non-compliances that are highly correlated with risk and demand immediate mitigation by the regulated parties.
An active authorization such as a device licence or contractor registration is necessary for TSSA to have oversight of the technical operations it regulates. With the Enhanced Authorization program launched in 2021, TSSA has been actively following up on authorizations that haven’t been renewed, so that TSSA can track and follow up with those operating illegally. TSSA has resolved 93 per cent of lapsed authorizations in its initial two years. In 2023, TSSA launched a new initiative to address authorizations that had expired between April 2016 and April 2021, resolving 819 out of the 3,500 that had failed to renew, surpassing the first-year target. This initiative will continue into the next fiscal year.
TSSA’s Compliance Support program continues to assist owners, operators and contractors with high-risk devices and operations by working directly with TSSA to address their specific issues. This program has yielded promising results, with 87 per cent of the participants achieving improved safety outcomes and risk profile.
“TSSA is committed to strengthening our capability to collect and analyze data and strategically make use of those insights to target risk and improve safety,” said Rose. “As an Outcome-Based Regulator, we are focusing our resources on areas that pose the greatest threat to public safety and using all the proven tools to reduce the risk of harm for Ontarians.”
For a full picture of the state of public safety in Ontario, access TSSA's 2023 Public Safety Report at www.tssa.org. The report includes case studies depicting some of the harmful incidents that occurred in Ontario in the past year, as well as actions taken and lessons learned.
About TSSA
Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) administers provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education, authorization, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, compliance support, enforcement, and prosecution activities.
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For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
Email: media@tssa.org
TORONTO, ON, May 17, 2023 – The countdown to the summer season is on and BBQs will be making their seasonal debut this May ‘2-4’ long weekend. As you prepare to light it up, make sure you light it right; the only fireworks you should be seeing are those in the sky.
To get sizzling keep these BBQ safety tips in mind:
Test for Leaks
- Clean burner ports and tubes; Use a pipe cleaner or wire to ensure burner ports are free of rust, dirt, spider webs or other debris.
- Check the hose leading from the gas tank to the burner and replace it if cracked or damaged.
- Test for leaks with a 50/50 water/dish soap solution on propane cylinder connections and hoses. If bubbles appear, it could mean gas is leaking out so tighten the connection and/or replace the damaged parts and re-test.
Light it Right
- Before lighting, make sure the BBQ is on level ground, far away from any flammable material, with the lid open.
- Turn the tank’s gas valve on, then the grill controls or heat setting and push the igniter button.
- If there is no igniter button, insert a long match or BBQ lighter through the side burner hole first, then turn on the heat control knob.
- If the burner does not ignite right away, turn the gas off and wait five minutes, keeping the lid open, before repeating the procedure.
- Never lean over the grill when you are lighting it.
Keep it Outdoors
- Always barbecue outside in a well-ventilated area – BBQs are approved for outdoor use ONLY. They emit carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can lead to unconsciousness and even death.
- Propane cylinders may not be used or stored inside any structure.
Stay Safe
- BBQs are intended to be attended.
- Never leave your cooking/grill unsupervised.
- Keep kids and pets away from the BBQ.
- Keep any flammable items/liquids away from the BBQ. This includes the use of hand sanitizer, whose 60-80% alcohol-based content makes it highly flammable. While hand sanitizer is safe when used correctly it can be a dangerous combination when barbecuing. Keep this in mind, exercise caution and opt for thorough hand washing when getting ready to grill.
- Never throw water on a grease fire.
BBQing on Apartment or Condo Balconies: YES or NO?
Ontarians living in apartments and condominiums should be aware of additional safety restrictions and potential hazards related to barbecue use on balconies. Barbecues may be prohibited by the municipality or in the Condominium bylaws of your building or prohibited by the building owner or property manager, so be sure you are aware of any restrictions in place for your building.
DON’T BBQ on a Balcony IF:
- Prohibited in the bylaws of your municipality and/or condominium.
- Prohibited by the building owner or property manager of a rental property.
DO BBQ on a Balcony but Only IF:
- Permitted in the bylaws of your municipality and condominium.
- Permitted by the building owner or property manager of a rental property.
- The balcony is open (no enclosures or walls have been erected).
- A propane cylinder is transported in a service elevator; when there are no service elevators, you may use the passenger elevator, but you must be alone.
- The cylinder is kept on the balcony and connected to the BBQ.
- The BBQ is kept clear of combustible material as listed on the BBQ’s rating plate or in the certified instructions.
- The propane cylinder relief valve is at least one (1) metre horizontally from any building opening below it, and three (3) metres from a building air intake.
For additional BBQ safety tips, check out and share our animated safety videos:
TSSA BBQ Safety Tips - Your BBQ Needs Your Full Attention
TSSA BBQ Safety Tips - Make a Clean Start - Test it!
TSSA BBQ SAFETY TIPS - LIGHT IT RIGHT
TSSA BBQ Safety Tips - NEVER BBQ in an Enclosed Space
TSSA BBQ Safety Tips - Taking Your Propane Tank for a Ride
For more information on barbecue safety and other safety topics, visit TSSA’s safety website at www.safetyinfo.ca
About TSSA
Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) enforces provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support, enforcement and prosecution activities.
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For more information, please contact:
Alexandra Campbell
Vice President Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Technical Standards and Safety Authority
Telephone: 416-734-6227
email:media@tssa.org
For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, please visit www.tssa.org.
Refrigerated ice surfaces — both indoor and outdoor — are an important part of Ontario’s recreational landscape. These facilities continue to expand beyond traditional hockey arenas and curling clubs to fulfil sporting and recreational needs.
Check out TSSA’s new advisory and learn how to safely operate and maintain indoor and outdoor refrigerated ice rinks that are run commercially or by a community or municipality in Ontario.
With summer rains increasing the risk of flooding, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) cautions Ontarians to be aware of fuels and elevator related hazards that can occur during flooding conditions. When flooding occurs, key energy infrastructures can become temporarily out of commission, tempting residents to turn to alternatives that may be unsafe.
Did you Know?
- Portable, fuel-fired appliances designed for outdoor use are never safe to use indoors – They can cause carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, fires and other harmful risks.
- Generators used outside must be situated away from open windows, doors and vents – CO produced by a generator can seep into these openings.
- CO gas can also accumulate in car ports, garages and covered patios – Never use portable, fuel-fired generators, propane BBQs and other fuel-burning outdoor appliances in these areas to prevent CO poisoning.
- Drying a basement with commercial ventilating fans can create a ‘negative pressure’ environment – This can cause CO from appliances in the home to spill back into the home, so ensure there is proper ventilation during the procedure.
- Using an elevator in a flooding building is a safety hazard – Water can accumulate in elevator shafts or adversely affect an elevator’s operation leading to entrapment or injury.
Visit TSSA.org/Seasonal-Flooding-Safety for TSSA’s full seasonal flooding safety guide. Residents and businesses unsure of how flooding conditions may affect the safeness of specific TSSA-regulated devices should contact TSSA.