Labs and Studios - June 2025

Date: 
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 - 11:00am

Labs and Studios Minutes – June 18, 2025

AC 147 and zoom

 

Present:   A. Diochon, B. Huska,  S. Girvin, M. Moore, S. Azarhazin, H. Staple, M. Sorokopud, T. Moore

 

TIME Commenced: 11:00 am hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION M.M. SECOND A.D. Carried. 

May 2025 Minutes: MOTION  A.D. SECOND M.M. Carried.

 

Injuries/Incidents

None

Inspections - 

Completed

  • Physics - A. Diochon & B. Huska

  • Civil Engineering - J. Gao & B. Huska

 

Outstanding

  • LUEL - M. Sorokopud - Will be reaching out

  • Geology - J. Sylvestre 

  • Electrical Engineering - M. Moore

  • LUACF/BAF

  • Biology

  • NRM - Will push date until after Braun shutdown is over

 

July Inspections: (no assignments made - will send email about it)

  • ATRC

  • Chemical Engineering

  • Kinesiology

 

Old Business

 

  • Terms of reference was sent around, no issues. Final approval - Motion: A. Diochon Seconded: M. Moore

  • Hazardous waste pickup was on May 22, but was not fully completed. Some items were not able to fit, additional pick up will be scheduled. Issues occurred relating to researchers not using appropriate containers for waste and multiple items being included in one waste request. Will send email seasonally to remind about safety matters, committee to review hazardous waste procedure. 

  • New member search for an alternate for Kailash was successful and Hughroy Staple has joined the committee.

 

New Business

  • Elections for co-chairs occurred - Management co-chair: B. Huska, Worker co-chair: M. Sorokopud. No one nominated for Secretary position, M. Moore resigned. Currently vacant, email will be sent around to ask for nominations.

  • Committee was notified of issues relating to purchasing of equipment that does not meet safety standards or have necessary certifications (ESA, TSSA). P.O. stated that CSA certifications were required. Vendor was outside of North America and stated no ESA certifications were required (incorrect). Meeting to be scheduled with purchasing, office or research, health and safety, and physical plant to discuss solutions moving forward. Possible solutions include a pre-purchase checklist to flag equipment that may require checks.

 

Other Business

  • J. Gao - Leaking nitrogen regulator on wall  in gas room in CASES building. Steve will look into this

    • Update May 21, 2025 need to check on this

    • Update June 18, 2025 Steve looking into this to see if resolved

  • Next Meeting will do elections for Secretary.

  • Braun shutdown on July 2nd, freezers have been moved or supplied power. Exit lighting may be impacted until emergency circuit work can be conducted (priority). Safety plan in place. Security has access to escort people to retrieve items. Locks are being changed. 

  • Members of the JHSC required to attend lab decommissioning inspections, members will be notified of upcoming inspections as they arise.

 

Adjournment:  11:40am

 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: July 16, 2025 time 11:00am

Labs and Studios - May 2025

Date: 
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 - 11:00am

Labs and Studios Minutes –May 21, 2025

AC 147 and zoom

 

Present:   G. Oba, A. Diochon, B.Huska, J. Sylvestre, J. Gao, S. Girvin, K. Bhatia, M. Moore, S. Azarhazin

 

TIME Commenced: 11:09 am hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION A.D. SECOND J.S. Carried. 

April 2025 Minutes: MOTION  A.D. SECOND G.O.

 

Injuries/Incidents

Injury of worker at pool while moving bulkhead. Missed time. RPSS committee heading inspection and recommendations 

Inspections - 

  • Visual Arts Completed - G. Oba & B. Huska

  • Lot 5 Research Lab Completed - M. Sorokopud & B Huska

 

Outstanding

  • LUEL - M. Sorokopud - Need to ask Mike to see status

  • Geology - J. Sylvestre - Will follow up

  • Civil Engineering - J. Gao has reached out, awaiting response

 

April Inspections:

  • Electrical Engineering - M. Moore

  • Anthropology - Delay since they are moving

  • Physics - Amanda prior to next Friday

 

Old Business

  • Mechanical Engineering - Exhaust fan and missing ceiling tiles

    • Update 2025-03-19 - Work order has been issued to address, S. Girvin will check on status

    • Update 2025-04-16 - Fan has arrived, install should begin next week

    • Update 2025-05-21 - Work has been completed, but some items broken/missing K. Bhatia will create work order

 

  • Terms of reference reviewed during the meeting and changes made. Some items about requirements of having a certified member for accident investigation need to be checked.

 

New Business

  • ESA Inspections ongoing, may be trying to implement an inventory of equipment with our own barcodes to access certification status easily and indicate to the inspector we have checked and it is approved.

  • For local electrical equipment certification local contact: kevin.schiiler@intertek.com

  • Hazardous waste pickup is occurring May 22. CB loading dock is off limits.

 

Other Business

  • J. Gao - Leaking nitrogen regulator on wall  in gas room in CASES building. Steve will look into this

    • Update May 21, 2025 need to check on this

  • K. Bhatia raised that he would like to seek replacements/alternates for the engineering department. He will reach out to colleagues who may be able to take over the position.

  • Next Meeting will do elections for Co-Chair and secretary.

 

Adjournment:  12:03 pm

 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: June 18, 2025 time 11:00am

RPSS - May 2025

Date: 
Thursday, May 15, 2025 - 3:30pm

Date: May 15, 2025
Place: In person - Physical Plant meeting room
Time: 1:18 p.m.
Present: S. Girvin, T. Moore, F. Sgambelluri, D. Carlin, S. Nemec, J. Alexander
Guests: B. Huska

Regrets:
OLD Business:
A. Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking. There are no vehicles
allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such
time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed. There are no updates at
this time on this project.
Nov.18, 2021 – update, a design is being developed in anticipation of the project
going to tender
Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off
May 16, 2024 – no change
Nov 28, 2024 – no change
Jan 16, 2025 – no change
Feb 20 2025 – no update
Mar 20 2025 - no change in conditions, no update
B. Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have
been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at
this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022
Feb.16, 2023 – Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in
the spring of 2023. Security would like to be part of this training as well.
May 16, 2024 – This training is to be scheduled soon. S. Girvin
Nov 28, 2024 – No change
Jan 16, 2025 – no change
Feb 20 2025 – Meeting on March 4 with the provider to define scope of training.
Training sessions to be scheduled soon after.
Mar 20 2025 - Residence scheduled late March, Plant scheduled after, and
Security/Mail/TSC yet to schedule
Apr 17 2025 - Security & physical plant completed. TSC outstanding, J.A. will bring
it up to TSC. Recommended backing in for all, better visibility. T.M. will ask the
instructor to send any observations about campus safety relating to driving.
May 15, 2025 - TSC verifying the users of the trucks then will be contacting physical
plant and will be scheduling training. Security has new staff & some back from
leave, will be scheduling training for them. Looking to get netting to contain small
items loose in the vehicle (this was brought up by the training instructor) may need
to be designed for the vehicles and meet standards.

C. November 28, 2024 – Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.
Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP
Administration and Finance and Security Director.
Jan 16, 2025 – no update.
Feb 20, 2025 – With no repairs or line painting conducted in 2024, the lots have
continued to deteriorate. In April/May members will inspect all parking lots to create
a condition list of all parking lots to assist in renewal planning to accompany the
recommendation for the parking lot renewal plan.
Mar 20 2025 - $1200 of patching was completed a couple weeks ago, another
$2000 planned following an incident in Lot 14 where a security guard was inspecting
the condition of the lot, and a car’s tire shot a piece of asphalt into the parking lot,
luckily missing the guard. Committee will plan to conduct all parking lot inspections
in the week of the May meeting.
Apr 17 2025 - During other inspections look at parking lots and report issues.
Committee will identify areas with major issues and conduct inspections in May.
Likely Lot 13/14 roadway, G4, Bora Laskin, Fieldhouse Lot 1, by EV stations.
May 15, 2025 - Frank Jeff and Darren will survey all parking lots with a scoring
system provided by Tiffany so we can have a numerical reading system to include
with our recommendation to Lauren and Rajni.
D. Braun Transformer upgrade
January 16, 2025 – will require a change-over in transformer in the summer. This
will require most of the building to be without power for a period of time. Plan for
access will be developed and communicated prior to the work. Many keys for the
exterior doors are issued, so will require lock changes to secure the building.
February 20, 2025 – Shut down will be scheduled in late July/early August.
Occupants who require periodic access will have to schedule through security
services.
Mar 20, 2025 - Dates now scheduled for July 2nd - August 15th, contingent on parts
arrival.
E. Rural Resource Centre Closure
Mar 20 2025 - Rural Resource Centre closed due to their drinking water sterilization
system failed.
Apr 17 2025 - No update
F. Excavations for sinkholes
Mar 20 2025 - Excavations are required between RB and LI this spring that may
require closing fire exits to repair sink holes. Barricades are up until this work can
be completed. Another excavation is needed between PH and CB for the same
reason.
April 17 2025 - Scheduling in May
May 15, 2025 - This is now scheduled for the first week of June
G. Residence Roofing Project
Mar 20 2025 - Roofing project is ongoing and there were no additional safety
infractions, porches are the last piece to be addressed and access is being
managed on site for student access. Fences will be removed when second snow

stop is removed.
Apr 17 2025 - Work paused for exams, will resume after exams end
May 15, 2025 - Nearing completion
H. Terms of Reference
Apr 17, 2025 - Committee to review by April 25 so final draft can be reviewed and
approved in May
May 15, 2025 - Deferred to next meeting
I. EPID Presentation
Apr 17, 2025 - Committee members are invited to attend a special meeting on April
29th from EPID@Work discussion the Northwestern Ontario Workplace and Worker
Health Study (NOWWHS).
May 15, 2025 - Presentation occurred, slide deck and recording offered for
committee, still outstanding.

Injury Report:
1. slip and fall in residence outdoors, cut to hand one day last time
2. slip and fall outdoors residence two days last time
3. slip and fall outside in March bike shack on ice neck hurt ended up being WSI after
injury did not resolve
4. injury in athletics investigation by the committee required personnel were moving
the bulkhead while deflating worker inadvertently put foot underneath the bulkhead .
foot was trapped for a few minutes, resulting in lost time of two days no broken
bones not a critical injury committee members and health and safety have been
working with athletics to improve safe work procedure for this operation.
Near Misses:
None
Inspections Conducted:
RC inspected by S Elsey, H. Spivak and F. Sgambelluri. Outpost and SC
outstanding.
ATAC, Bike Shack, CASES, 874 Tungsten and 1294 Balmoral completed by Stan &
Jeff
May 29 meet in the agora anyone available so inspections can be assigned and
completed.
NEW Business:
● Human Resources:
○ Nothing to report

● Physical Plant:
○ Campus power shutdown May 3rd.
● Residence:
○ Nothing to report

Inspections Outstanding;

Rural Resources Center – Postponed due to closure
Lot 5 Research Lab
Prettie
Apartment 1
Apartment 2
Bartley

Meeting adjourned 2:12pm.
NEXT MEETING: June 19th at 1:30 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room

RPSS - April 2025

Date: 
Thursday, April 17, 2025 - 9:15am

Date:  April 17, 2025

Place: In person - Physical Plant meeting room 

Time: 11:03 p.m.

 

Present:  S. Girvin, T. Moore, F. Sgambelluri, D. Carlin, S. Nemec, J. Alexander

 

Guests: B. Huska



Regrets:

 

OLD Business: 

 

A.  Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking.  There are no vehicles allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed.  There are no        updates at this time on this project.

Nov.18, 2021 – update, a design is being developed in anticipation of the project going to tender

Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off 

May 16, 2024 – no change

Nov 28, 2024 – no change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – no update

Mar 20 2025 - no change in conditions, no update

 

B.  Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022 

Feb.16, 2023 – Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in the spring of 2023.  Security would like to be part of this training as well.

May 16, 2024 – This training is to be scheduled soon.  S. Girvin 

Nov 28, 2024 – No change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – Meeting on March 4 with the provider to define scope of training.  Training sessions to be scheduled soon after.

Mar 20 2025 - Residence scheduled late March, Plant scheduled after, and Security/Mail/TSC yet to schedule

Apr 17 2025 - Security & physical plant completed. TSC outstanding, J.A. will bring it up to TSC. Recommended backing in for all, better visibility. T.M. will ask the instructor to send any observations about campus safety relating to driving.



C.  February 9, 2024 – Greg Croft the representative of the Security team has raised two issues;

 

  1. request for body armour (vests) – approved and samples have been ordered 

  2. request for training for the Security team

 

May 16, 2024 – vests have been purchased and are in process of branding.  Follow-up with the Security Manager to confirm they have been issued to guards and they are wearing them.

Nov 28, 2024 – Security advised that minimal personnel are wearing their assigned vests.  Will forward to H&S the wording of the roll-out to determine next steps.

Jan 16, 2025 – no update

Feb 20, 2025 – Tiffany, Frank, and Lorne Clifford will be meeting on February 21 to review the issue and will report back at the next meeting.

Mar 20, 2025 - Staff notified to wear vests or return.  3 have returned their vests and advised in writing they do not wish to have the vests, 4 are wearing, 1 is undecided.

Apr 17 2025 - Item closed, staff who choose to take a vest must wear it, new staff will be given the option to get a vest if they wish.

 

D.  November 28, 2024 – Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.  Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP Administration and Finance and Security Director.

Jan 16, 2025 – no update.

Feb 20, 2025 – With no repairs or line painting conducted in 2024, the lots have continued to deteriorate.  In April/May members will inspect all parking lots to create a condition list of all parking lots to assist in renewal planning to accompany the recommendation for the parking lot renewal plan.

Mar 20 2025 - $1200 of patching was completed a couple weeks ago, another $2000 planned following an incident in Lot 14 where a security guard was inspecting the condition of the lot, and a car’s tire shot a piece of asphalt into the parking lot, luckily missing the guard.  Committee will plan to conduct all parking lot inspections in the week of the May meeting.

Apr 17 2025 - During other inspections look at parking lots and report issues. Committee will identify areas with major issues and conduct inspections in May. Likely Lot 13/14 roadway, G4, Bora Laskin, Fieldhouse Lot 1, by EV stations.

 

E.  Braun Transformer upgrade 

 

January 16, 2025 – will require a change-over in transformer in the summer.  This will require most of the building to be without power for a period of time. Plan for access will be developed and communicated prior to the work.  Many keys for the exterior doors are issued, so will require lock changes to secure the building.

February 20, 2025 – Shut down will be scheduled in late July/early August.  Occupants who require periodic access will have to schedule through security services.

Mar 20, 2025 - Dates now scheduled for July 2nd - August 15th, contingent on parts arrival.

 

F.   Rural Resource Centre Closure

Mar 20 2025 - Rural Resource Centre closed due to their drinking water sterilization system failed.

Apr 17 2025 - No update

 

G.  Excavations for sinkholes

Mar 20 2025 - Excavations are required between RB and LI this spring that may require closing fire exits to repair sink holes.  Barricades are up until this work can be completed.  Another excavation is needed between PH and CB for the same reason.

April 17 2025 - Scheduling in May

 

H. Residence Roofing Project

Mar 20 2025 - Roofing project is ongoing and there were no additional safety infractions, porches are the last piece to be addressed and access is being managed on site for student access.  Fences will be removed when second snow stop is removed.

Apr 17 2025 - Work paused for exams, will resume after exams end

 

Injury Report:

 

None

 

Near Misses:

 

None

 

Inspections Conducted:

 

RC inspected by S Elsey, H. Spivak and F. Sgambelluri.  Outpost and SC outstanding.

 

SN inspected by S. Nemec and J. Alexander

RB inspected by S. Nemec and J. Alexander

 

NEW Business:

 

  • Human Resources: 

    • Nothing to report

 

  • Physical Plant: 

    • Campus power shutdown May 3rd.



  • Residence:

    • Nothing to report

 

  • Terms of Reference - Committee to review by April 25 so final draft can be reviewed and approved in May.

 

  • EPID Presentation - Committee members are invited to attend a special meeting on April 29th from EPID@work discussing the Northwestern Ontario Workplace and Worker Health Cohort Study (NOWWHS). 






Inspections Outstanding;

 

Rural Resources Center – Postponed due to closure

Lot 5 Research Lab - Stan & worker

Prettie

Apartment 1

Apartment 2

Bartley

874 Tungsten Street - Stan & Jeff




NEXT MEETING: May 15th at 1:30 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room

 

Labs and Studios - March

Date: 
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 - 8:45am

 

Labs and Studios Minutes –March 19 2025

AC 147 and zoom

 

Present:   M. Sorokopud, G. Oba, M. Moore, A. Diochon, T. Moore, B.Huska, C. Surette, J. Sylvestre, S. Azarhazin, S. Girvin

 

TIME Commenced: 11:10 am hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION J.S. SECOND A.D. Carried. 

February 2025 Minutes: MOTION  A.D. SECOND M.S.

 

Injuries/Incidents

None

Inspections - 

None Conducted

Inspections 2025 List has been shared with the committee

March Inspections to be scheduled by committee members (send invite to H&S to accompany when available)

  • LUEL - M. Sorokopud

  • Geology - J. Sylvestre

  • Fire Test Lab - A. Diochon

 

Google form has been created for committee members to send in their copies of completed inspection reports.  This will help the safety team with compliance and tracking

https://forms.gle/Chisyu6fR2H28z8G8

Old Business

  • Mechanical Engineering - Exhaust fan and missing ceiling tiles

    • Update 2025-03-19 - Work order has been issued to address, S. Girvin will check on status

 

New Business

EPID@work will be presenting to all JHSC April 29th about their Northwestern Ontario cohort study.  This study relates to mental illness, substance abuse and psychological safety at work.  Lakehead is participating in the study, but participants are still needed for a good response from Lakehead.  The anonymous data that is generated by this study will be very informative for H&S program planning to have data from Lakehead to drive our initiatives.

  • Lakehead Gathers 

Part of the wellness initiative for 2025 is to hold monthly events to offer learning opportunities and the opportunity for employees to connect on a more social level.  Calendar of events is found here:  Lakehead Gathers | Lakehead University

  • Terms of Reference Review

The terms of reference have been circulated for review and comment.  Please provide your comments on the document circulated using tracked changes by April 9th.

 

Other Business

  • Physical Plant updates

Mercury Ban

Ban is continuing at an accelerated pace, with lighting being a focus for 2025/2026.  Compact fluorescent and fluorescent tubes are no longer being manufactured, and are beginning to be a challenge to locate for purchase.  University has approximately 14,000 fixtures that will need to be replaced with LED fixtures, beginning with the Patterson Library.  There is an exception for UV lights.

 

BB Transformer Work

Transformer is being manufactured in QC, but due to tariff environment, we may have some timing delays.  This work will require Braun to be closed July 2- Aug 15 as there will be no power/lighting/fire alarm monitoring.  Periodic access will be by request through security escorts.

 

Adjournment:  11:43

 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: April 16, 2025 time 11:00am 

RPSS - March

Date: 
Thursday, March 20, 2025 - 8:45am

Health and Safety Committee Meeting

Lakehead University

955 Oliver Road

 

Date:  March 20, 2025

Place: In person - Physical Plant meeting room 

Time: 1:36 p.m.

 

Present:  S. Girvin, H. Spivak, T. Moore, F. Sgambelluri, S. Elsey, D. Carlin, T. Falcigno, S. Nemec

 

Guests: B. Huska



Regrets:

 

OLD Business: 

 

A.  Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking.  There are no vehicles allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed.  There are no        updates at this time on this project.

Nov.18, 2021 – update, a design is being developed in anticipation of the project going to tender

Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off 

May 16, 2024 – no change

Nov 28, 2024 – no change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – no update

Mar 20 2025 - no change in conditions, no update

 

B.  Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022 

Feb.16, 2023 – Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in the spring of 2023.  Security would like to be part of this training as well.

May 16, 2024 – This training is to be scheduled soon.  S. Girvin 

Nov 28, 2024 – No change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – Meeting on March 4 with the provider to define scope of training.  Training sessions to be scheduled soon after.

Mar 20 2025 - Residence scheduled late March, Plant scheduled after, and Security/Mail/TSC yet to schedule



C.  February 9, 2024 – Greg Croft the representative of the Security team has raised two issues;

 

  1. request for body armour (vests) – approved and samples have been ordered 

  2. request for training for the Security team

 

May 16, 2024 – vests have been purchased and are in process of branding.  Follow-up with the Security Manager to confirm they have been issued to guards and they are wearing them.

Nov 28, 2024 – Security advised that minimal personnel are wearing their assigned vests.  Will forward to H&S the wording of the roll-out to determine next steps.

Jan 16, 2025 – no update

Feb 20, 2025 – Tiffany, Frank, and Lorne Clifford will be meeting on February 21 to review the issue and will report back at the next meeting.

Mar 20, 2025 - Staff notified to wear vests or return.  3 have returned their vests and advised in writing they do not wish to have the vests, 4 are wearing, 1 is undecided.

 

D.  November 28, 2024 – Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.  Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP Administration and Finance and Security Director.

 

Jan 16, 2025 – no update.

Feb 20, 2025 – With no repairs or line painting conducted in 2024, the lots have continued to deteriorate.  In April/May members will inspect all parking lots to create a condition list of all parking lots to assist in renewal planning to accompany the recommendation for the parking lot renewal plan.

Mar 20 2025 - $1200 of patching was completed a couple weeks ago, another $2000 planned following an incident in Lot 14 where a security guard was inspecting the condition of the lot, and a car’s tire shot a piece of asphalt into the parking lot, luckily missing the guard.  Committee will plan to conduct all parking lot inspections in the week of the May meeting.

 

E.  Braun Transformer upgrade 

 

January 16, 2025 – will require a change-over in transformer in the summer.  This will require most of the building to be without power for a period of time. Plan for access will be developed and communicated prior to the work.  Many keys for the exterior doors are issued, so will require lock changes to secure the building.

February 20, 2025 – Shut down will be scheduled in late July/early August.  Occupants who require periodic access will have to schedule through security services.

Mar 20, 2025 - Dates now scheduled for July 2nd - August 15th, contingent on parts arrival.

 

Injury Report:

 

None

 

Near Misses:

 

None

 

Inspections Conducted:

 

RC inspected by S Elsey, H. Spivak and F. Sgambelluri.  Outpost and SC outstanding.

 

NEW Business:

 

  • Workplace Inspections: 

    • Committee has requested scanning old inspection reports so inspectors have them available when conducting inspections.

    • Committee has requested a document with typical infractions

    • Committee has requested a copy of the floor plans to mark areas inspected without substandard conditions.

    • A google form has been created for inspectors to upload completed inspection reports and pictures.  This will greatly help with H&S record keeping as well as provide access to these reports to all members of the committee.  https://forms.gle/ykze26hASE8tPjcC7

 

  • Human Resources: 

    • Nothing to report

 

  • Physical Plant: 

    • Rural Resource Centre in Murillo is currently closed as their drinking water sterilization system failed.

    • Excavations are required between RB and LI this spring that may require closing fire exits to repair sink holes.  Barricades are up until this work can be completed.  Another excavation is needed between PH and CB for the same reason.

    • Vet School - Design is completed and much work being done this summer to begin renovations in CASES, BB and AT to support the vet program and moves associated with it.

    • Outdoor classroom (near the sweat lodge) is nearing final planning stages.

    • Lot 5 house is being renovated in anticipation of a new occupant.

    • Fire Alarm system being upgraded in Prettie this week.

 

  • Residence:

    • Roofing project is ongoing and there were no additional safety infractions, porches are the last piece to be addressed and access is being managed on site for student access.  Fences will be removed when second snow stop is removed.

 

  • Terms of Reference - Committee to review before April meeting so final draft can be reviewed and approved in April.

 

  • EPID Presentation - Committee members are invited to attend a special meeting on April 29th from EPID@work discussing the Northwestern Ontario Workplace and Worker Health Cohort Study (NOWWHS).  Invitation to follow.

 

  • Steve E will be management co-chair in Stan’s absence.





Inspections Outstanding;

 

Avila – Heather

Rural Resources Center – Steve G and worker

Balmoral Street Center - Stan & worker

Building Maintenance

Shipping and Receiving 

874 Tungsten Street 




NEXT MEETING: April 17th at 1:30 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room









_________________________ ___________________________

Worker Co-chair Management Co-chair



______________________ _____________________

Date Date

 

RPSS - February

Date: 
Thursday, February 20, 2025 - 10:00am

Place: In person - Physical Plant meeting room 

Time: 1:36 p.m.

 

Present:  S. Girvin, H. Spivak, T. Moore, F. Sgambelluri, S. Elsey

 

Guests: B. Huska



Regrets:

 

OLD Business: 

 

A.  Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking.  There are no vehicles allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed.  There are no        updates at this time on this project.

Nov.18, 2021 – update, a design is being developed in anticipation of the project going to tender

Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off 

May 16, 2024 – no change

Nov 28, 2024 – no change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – no update

 

B.  Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022 

Feb.16, 2023 – Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in the spring of 2023.  Security would like to be part of this training as well.

May 16, 2024 – This training is to be scheduled soon.  S. Girvin 

Nov 28, 2024 – No change

Jan 16, 2025 – no change

Feb 20 2025 – Meeting on March 4 with the provider to define scope of training.  Training sessions to be scheduled soon after.



C.  February 9, 2024 – Greg Croft the representative of the Security team has raised two issues;

 

  1. request for body armour (vests) – approved and samples have been ordered 

  2. request for training for the Security team

 

May 16, 2024 – vests have been purchased and are in process of branding.  Follow-up with the Security Manager to confirm they have been issued to guards and they are wearing them.

Nov 28, 2024 – Security advised that minimal personnel are wearing their assigned vests.  Will forward to H&S the wording of the roll-out to determine next steps.

Jan 16, 2025 – no update

Feb 20, 2025 – Tiffany, Frank, and Lorne Clifford will be meeting on February 21 to review the issue and will report back at the next meeting.

 

D.  November 28, 2024 – Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.  Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP Administration and Finance and Security Director.

 

Jan 16, 2025 – no update.

Feb 20, 2025 – With no repairs or line painting conducted in 2024, the lots have continued to deteriorate.  In April/May members will inspect all parking lots to create a condition list of all parking lots to assist in renewal planning to accompany the recommendation for the parking lot renewal plan.

 

E.  Braun Transformer upgrade 

 

January 16, 2025 – will require a change-over in transformer in the summer.  This will require most of the building to be without power for a period of time. Plan for access will be developed and communicated prior to the work.  Many keys for the exterior doors are issued, so will require lock changes to secure the building.

February 20, 2025 – Shut down will be scheduled in late July/early August.  Occupants who require periodic access will have to schedule through security services.

 

Injury Report:

 

Residence - incident - worker rolled ankle while shoveling snow.  Proper footwear was being worn at the time.  No lost time, no medical attention.

 

Residence - lost time - worker sustained injury to their shoulder when pulling a chair out from a table in the cafeteria.  Two days were lost, member has returned to modified duties.

 

Plant - incident - worker was carrying a toilet and stepped down one step unexpectedly.  Lower back injury.  No lost time, no medical attention.

 

Near Misses:

 

None

 

NEW Business:

 

  • Workplace Inspections: 

    • Template of inspection sheet so it can be filled out on a device or printed and filled in. Tiffany will send reminders on the third week of the month to complete that month’s inspection. Google doc shared with locations listed that need inspections and what month they are to be done. 

 

 

 

  • Physical Plant: 

    • Lot 5 water main break flooded the lower part of lot 5 leaving thick ice. Security barricaded the area and dumped a large amount of salt and cleared by contract

 

  • Committee noted that the lakeside stairs including the present’s balcony have deteriorated.

 

  • Residence:

    • Roofing project is ongoing and there were no additional safety infractions.

 

  • Floor Plans for Buildings are being updated. Steve to ask if the wayfinding maps and fire exit maps will be updated.




Inspections Outstanding;

 

Avila – Heather

Rural Resources Center – Steve G and worker

Balmoral Street Center - Stan & worker

Building Maintenance

Shipping and Receiving 

874 Tungsten Street 




NEXT MEETING: March 20 at 1:30 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room

 

RPSS - January

Date: 
Thursday, January 16, 2025 - 11:15am

Health and Safety Committee Meeting

Lakehead University

955 Oliver Road

 

Date:  January 16, 2025

Place: In person -Physical Plant meeting room 

Time: 1:05 p.m.

 

Present:  S. Girvin, H. Spivak, D. Carlin, T. Moore, Stan Nemec, F. Sgambelluri, T. Falcigno, S. Elsey



Regrets:

OLD Business: 

 

A. Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking.  There are no vehicles allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed.  There are no        updates at this time on this project.

Nov.18, 2021 update – a design is being developed in anticipation of the project going to tender

Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off 

May 16, 2024- no change

Nov 28, 2024 - No Change

Jan 16, 2025 - no change

 

B. Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022 

         Feb.16, 2023 - Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in the spring of 2023.  Security would like to be part of this training as well.

May 16, 2024 - This training is to be scheduled soon.  S. Girvin 

Nov 28, 2024 - No change

Jan 16, 2025 - no change



C. February 9, 2024 - Greg Croft the representative of the Security team has raised two issues;

 

  1. request for body armour (vests) – approved and samples have been ordered 

  2. request for training for the Security team

 

May 16, 2024 - vests have been purchased and are in process of branding.  Follow-up with the Security Manager to confirm they have been issued to guards and they are wearing them.

Nov 28 - Security advised that minimal personnel are wearing their assigned vests.  Will forward to H&S the wording of the roll-out to determine next steps.

Jan 16, 2025 - no update

 

D. November 28, 2024 - Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.  Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP Administration and Finance and Security Director.

 

Jan 16, 2025 - no update.



Injury Report:

Slip and fall was reported to work order desk between RB and Library, but accident report still outstanding.  Follow-up found a slow leak from fire hydrant that requires repair in spring, causing ice.  Grounds will inspect on a regular basis to make sure sanding in the crosswalk is sufficient to reduce risk of slip.

 

Near Misses:



None

 

NEW Business:



E. Physical Plant updates

 

- Final backflow shed almost complete.  Work will begin inside buildings in the future.  This will be a large project.

 

-Braun will require a change-over in transformer in the summer.  This will require most of the building to be without power for a period of time.  Plan for access will be developed and communicated prior to the work.  Many keys for the exterior doors are issued, so will require lock changes to secure the building.

 

- Prettie Residence will have the fire panel upgraded this year.

 

F. H&S Websites for employee injury, illness and accommodation have been updated.  please review and communicate within your unit.

 

G. Hazardous waste - Residence and Plant have items to go for disposal.  Residence may need access to Llumin.  Tiffany to check.  Arno K. organizing battery and fluorescent light disposal.

 

H. Reminder - Security to be notified when there is a fire alarm in residence.

 

I. Reminder - Natural gas protocol to be followed when security receives reports of NG smell.

 

J. Residence Update

- Furnaces catching fire in townhouses.  Plan to replace this style of furnace, currently shutting down furnaces and electric heaters being provided where needed.

 

-Roofing project on-going, with signage, fencing, caution tape to mark area of work.  Concern regarding scaffolding not being fully tied off.  Steve E to address with contractor.

 

K. At start-up after holiday break, mechanics encountered a malfunction in the deep fryers in main cafe which resulted in the fryers being removed from service until replaced.  Upon further inspection it appeared that a previous malfunction occurred that was not reported to physical plant.  Tiffany to follow up with Aramark.

 

L.  Tiffany to create an inspection schedule - listing 2 areas per month for inspections.





Inspections Outstanding;

 

Avila – Heather

Rural Resources Center – Steve G and worker

Balmoral Street Center - Stan & worker

Building Maintenance

Shipping and Receiving 

874 Tungsten Street 

 

 




NEXT MEETING: February 20 at 1:00 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room

 

 

RPSS - November

Date: 
Thursday, November 28, 2024 - 11:15am

Health and Safety Committee Meeting

Lakehead University

955 Oliver Road

 

Date:  November 28, 2024

Place: In person -Physical Plant meeting room 

Time: 1:05 p.m.

 

Present:  S. Girvin, H. Spivak, D. Carlin, T. Moore, Stan Nemec, F. Sgambelluri

 

Regrets: S. Elsey, T. Falcigno

 

OLD Business: 

 

A. Steve reported that the floor in the Powerhouse is breaking.  There are no vehicles allowed inside. The area is cordoned off with signs advising of the danger, until such time as a decision is made how the floor will be fixed.  There are no        updates at this time on this project.

Nov.18, 2021 update – a design is being developed in anticipation of the project going to tender

Feb.24, 2022 – no change, Feb.16, 2023 still no change, the area is blocked off 

May 16, 2024- no change

Nov 28, 2024 - No Change

 

B. Steve has advised that he is scheduling “driver training” for his staff. There have been some unfortunate incidents recently with vehicles on campus. No updates at this time. Probably will wait till Spring 2022 

         Feb.16, 2023 - Steve advised that they planned to have this training completed in the spring of 2023.  Security would like to be part of this training as well.

May 16, 2024 - This training is to be scheduled soon.  S. Girvin 

Nov 28, 2024 - No change



C. February 9, 2024 - Greg Croft the representative of the Security team has raised two issues;

 

  1. request for body armour (vests) – approved and samples have been ordered 

  2. request for training for the Security team

 

May 16, 2024 - vests have been purchased and are in process of branding.  Follow-up with the Security Manager to confirm they have been issued to guards and they are wearing them.

Nov 28 - Security advised that minimal personnel are wearing their assigned vests.  Will forward to H&S the wording of the roll-out to determine next steps.

 

D. Question regarding safety for step ladders.  Previous safety training has indicated that 3 point contact has involved feet and arms only.  This is problematic for work completed from a step ladder such as changing light bulbs that requires overhead work and two hands.  Can we get clarification and training for step ladders?

 

Nov 28 - Steve advises that the body is considered as a point of contact.

 

Injury Report:

 

Physical Plant - Medical Aid - Worker injured back while unloading ~100 40 pound bags from the shipping vehicle.  Worker was on modified duties briefly and has now returned to regular duty.  Plant has conducted a review, heavy loads will be required to be a two person lift.  

Physical Plant - Medical Aid - After several days of a large move, worker noticed arm pain while moving a large object with another worker and loss of function.  Modified duties briefly and have now returned to regular duty.

 

Security - Medical Aid - Worker was conducting patrol, and missed a stair, resulting in an injury to the ankle.  Modified duties briefly, and has now returned to regular duty.

 

Residence - Lost Time - Worker was walking on sidewalk outside of Avila, and injured foot on broken asphalt.  Two days were missed as a result of the injury, and symptoms increased with use.  Medical attention was not sought until several weeks after the injury and lost time.  Lost time was reinstated following medical review and worker is currently off work.  

 

Near Misses:



None

 

NEW Business:

 

D. Workplace Violence Policy is now approved, please review.

 

E. Lab Safety Policy is now approved, please review.

 

F. Working for workers five - Bill 190 now approved.  Definition of workplace harassment has been expanded to include virtual harassment and Section 3 of the Act has been expanded to include private residences where remote work is being conducted.

 

Roundtable:

 

H. Security truck has been removed from service due to safety concerns.

 

I. Stop signs have been removed from campus roadways.

 

J. Parking lot conditions have continued to deteriorate.  Recommendation: A parking lot renewal plan to be created to be forwarded to VP Administration and Finance and Security Director.




Inspections Outstanding;

 

Avila – Heather

Rural Resources Center – Steve G and worker

Balmoral Street Center - Stan & Fred

Building Maintenance

Shipping and Receiving 

874 Tungsten Street 

 

 




NEXT MEETING: December 20 at 1:00 p.m. Physical Plant meeting room

 

 

 

Labs and Studios - February

Date: 
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 - 10:45am

 

Labs and Studios Minutes –February 19 2025

AC 147 and zoom

 

Present:   M. Sorokopud, G. Oba, M. Moore, A. Diochon, T. Moore, B.Huska

TIME Commenced: 2:32 PM hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION G.O. SECOND M.M. Carried. 

November 2024 Minutes :  MOTION M.S. SECOND A.D. Carried

January 2025 Minutes: MOTION M.S. SECOND A.D.

 

Injuries/Incidents

None

Inspections - 

Powerhouse - M.M. and H.F. - Eyewash caps missing. Propane stored indoors, was moved at time of inspection. One flammables cabinet was messy, recommended to go through cabinet and remove unneeded items to provide more space.

Biology (CASES) - M.S. and H.F. - Some eyewash station checks missing. Yellow signs need to be stuck on, was reported there were some issues with the tape they were using and they would not stay on. 

Outstanding

Fire Lab

Old Business

  • Mechanical Engineering - Exhaust fan and missing ceiling tiles

  • Structures Lab - Issues with old items and equipment being left in space and causing clutter. Shared SOPs were reviewed.

New Business

Other Business

  • Committee agreed to have a week each month for inspections to take place.

  • A.D. raised concerns about lab garbages not being emptied as frequently and becoming overfilled. Directed to talk to Stephanie about this issue.

  • G.O. indicated that next week when classes resume he will not be able to join the meeting as he has teaching commitments during the meeting time. Suggested to send around a Doodle poll around to see if there is a better time. B.H. will send doodle poll to all committee members

  • The Committee thanks Heidi Forsyth for her work as she departs 

  • The Committee welcomes Brenda Huska, HR Officer - Safety

 

Adjournment:  3:07 pm

 

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: March 19, 2025 time 11:00am 

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