Joint Health and Safety Committee Tuesday August 24, 2016 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

OA 3041 500 University Avenue

Minutes Regrets: Samantha MacLean, Chris Murray, Tim Rowe

In Attendance:  Carolyn Rimkey, Vicki TeBrugge, Rosa Fabiano, Frank Cappadocia, John Siecker, Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak, Cindy Tindal, Nathan Gardner Guests  Chris Gouett 

1. Approval of Agenda Approver: Frank Cappadocia Seconder: Nathan Gardner Moved

2. Approval of the Minutes from last JHSC meeting – March 8, 2016 Approver: Rosa Fabiano Seconder: Carolyn Rimkey Moved

3. Items Arising from the Minutes (last meeting)

• Wheelchairs have been purchased.  One is located at the 500 University Campus.  One is located at the Heritage Place Campus • ‘Splash’ Bathroom o Now will be called the First Aid Room o For the entire campus (staff, faculty, and students) o Contains First Aid Supplies, shower, and a day bed o Please be mindful of the Custodial Equipment in the room o Frank/John are to talk to the Custodial Staff about any larger equipment being stored in the room o The Campus will let people know the room is available and how to access it (Security) o Meant as a short term area.  If someone has a First Aid need longer than 20 to 30 minutes it is suggested that they seek medical help – for example Emergency or a Walk in Clinic.

• First Aid at Heritage Place o Usually the Security Office is available for short term needs o If someone has a First Aid need longer than 20 to 30 minutes it is suggested that they seek medical help – for example Emergency or a Walk in Clinic.

4. Injury and Accident Report  - Employee injuries – none since the last meeting - Student injury – none since last meeting - Building Inspections - - - - - Minor issues found and addressed immediately Speakers on Campus are being tested and fixed Camera Audit has been conducted and suggestions sent to Security in Thunder Bay Some cameras are being fixed and others added Frank has requested the Audit.  T-Bird will send it to him. - Flooding at Heritage Place - - - -

5. Items for discussion Flood occurred after a recent rain storm Furniture has been moved back after clean up completed TSC to re install computers A catch valve has been installed on the water fountain drainage to help prevent a reoccurrence.   

• Office Space Safety on Campus - A guideline is being worked on to speak about having an open and welcoming space on the entire Campus - Conversation about people bringing in their own coffee makers, space heaters, toasters, small fridges, etc - - If Physical Plant or others see the item as a Health or Safety issue then the it should be addressed with Management We are a LEED Platinum Building – Everyone should be aware of safety and electrical consumption - Window Coverings - - Education of Staff and Faculty about why we have windows to offices and classrooms.  The Campus Philosophy of having an open and welcoming environment Some offices and areas do require privacy.  Should the need arise management will address the inquiry and find a mutually beneficial solution 2 - An Information Paper has been created by Cindy and edited by Linda Rodenburg to address window coverings.  It will be shared with the Joint Health and Safety Committee for review and then sent out to Staff and Faculty on Campus. - Cleanliness - - Staff and Faculty should be mindful of your space If there is an issue it should be address with Management - Paper on the window of the Faculty Outer Office on third floor of Orillia Academic Building - -

• New Business Carolyn informed the group that the paper was put up to prevent Students from trying to view items such as tests and other private information Frank asked John to look into a permanent option - Nathan asked that people check the First Aid Kits to see if they are St John Ambulance First Aid Kits.  We are ordering supplies from St John Ambulance.  If the First Aid Kit is different it can still be used however supplies are only being ordered for St John Ambulance First Aid Kits at this time. - John spoke about the flooding on grounds near the Residence due to spring thaw run off.  The water pooled near the back of the Residence requiring a sump pump to move the water to a different area.  A report has been generated how to change the area to prevent flooding.   - Frank spoke about the parking of workers on the ‘ring road’ across from the 500 University Campus while they are building the Costco.  It is unclear if the City will maintain this road after the construction is completed.  Should Staff, Faculty, or Students park there they will do so at their own risk.   - - - - -Further discussion about what will occur with Parking once the Costco is operating.  Those who park there do so at their own risk. Walk Safe is only authorized to go to the edge of the Campus or to Rotary Place at this time. There may be issues in the future regarding people crossing the University Avenue from these parking areas to the campus. Should Security be called by the City or a Private Business regarding parking Security will encourage the City or the Business to follow their own policies regarding parking on their property. Security and the Committee will give thought to how to communicate this to Staff, Faculty, and Students -Cindy spoke about a couple items - -

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) is being changed over to Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).  GHS is a global system while WHMIS is a Canadian system. She provided an article to the group to read.   

New Sexual Violence Policy and Legislation.  Information and training to come in January, 2017. 3

6. Adjournment/Next Meeting.   • Next meeting will be scheduled for early November, 2016. 4 

Joint Health and Safety Committee Tuesday March 8, 2016 2:00 pm – 4:00 am

OA 3007 500 University Avenue

Regrets: Samantha MacLean

Minutes In Attendance:  Tim Rowe, Chris Murray, Rosa Fabiano, Theresa Prisciak, Carolyn Rimkey, Victoria TeBrugge, Elana Weber Management in Attendance: Frank Cappadocia, John Siecker Guests:  Nathan Gardner, Chris Gouett 

1. Approval of Agenda Approver: Elana Weber Seconder: John Siecker Moved

2. Approval of the Minutes from last JHSC meeting – October 19, 2015 Approver: Rosa Fabiano Seconder: Theresa Prisciak Moved

3. Items Arising from the Minutes (last meeting)

• Online Training for Health and Safety – Tim had not spoken with Jenny regarding this.  If there are issues with the Online Training for Health and Safety Chris Gouett will speak with Tim. 4. Injury and Accident Report  - Employee injuries – none since the last meeting - Student injury – One student injured during a number of fainting spells in the Commons Area.  She was assisted by Security.  She was wheeled in an office chair to a friend’s vehicle and taken to hospital.  The Student followed up with Security that she had a concussion from the fall and is recovering. 5. Items for discussion

• Wheelchair discussion - The recent Student Injury provided an example of the potential benefit of having a wheelchair on campus - Theresa and Elana have contacted the Thunder Bay campus to learn about their wheelchair usage and processes. - Through research they have learned that a wheelchair costs $300 - $600 to buy.  There is a yearly inspection that is to be done on the wheelchair.  Shoppers Drug Mart is able to provide the inspection service.  The wheelchair must have a visual inspection completed each time it is used. - Discussion about the wheelchair has been between Accessibility, Security, Health & Wellness, and Human Resources - While the cost to buy the wheelchair is not at issue.  The questions regarding the wheelchair will be maintenance of the wheelchair and developing processes for use - Theresa would like the wheelchair be for ‘in house’ use only.  Elana noted that Thunder Bay allows their wheelchair to be loaned out - Theresa discussed the need for an inspection sheet to create a uniform policy - John noted that liability should be considered – Employee and Student - Victoria questioned if two wheelchairs should be purchased.  One for HP and one for the 500 University Campus - The group asked if we should rent or buy the wheelchairs?  Elana and Theresa will find out the costs for each option and report back to Frank - Storage of the wheelchair for 500 University – ‘Splash room’ at 500 University was discussed.  This room may be converted for another purpose and not available to store the wheelchair.  Another room for storage could be the old Health and Wellness Room in the Academic Building.  OA1023. - The HP wheelchair could be stored in the Boardroom - It was concluded that there is a need for wheelchairs on the two campuses.  Elana and Theresa are going to look at the costs and processes and report back to Frank • Student Illness on Campus - In the event that a Student is ill on campus and requires transportation to the hospital - The best option is an ambulance - If the Student refuses an ambulance – Lakehead University Staff are not allowed to drive the Student to the hospital - The Student may have a ride with a friend who is not a Lakehead University Staff Member or Volunteer - At the discretion of the Staff Member – they may pay for the Student to take a taxi to the hospital.  The receipt for the taxi can be submitted to Administration Office on campus for review.  The Student is advised to call the University once they have reached the hospital • ‘Splash’ bathroom first floor Academic Building - Might become an inclusive bathroom – discussion ongoing - Might become a First Aid room.  It would only store First Aid equipment and materials.  It would have to be labeled correctly to avoid confusion

• Labs – No issues 2 • Uneven concrete – John told the group that he will arrange for orange spray paint to mark uneven spots on the concrete.  It was agreed that this method has worked in the past • Parking Lot - The snow removal company apologized for the issues that occurred during the last significant snowfall - John informed the group that even though there was less snow this year – the attention to the parking lot during frequent freezes and thaws must be the same

• Texting and walking – It has been noted that there is an increase of texting and walking near misses.  This practice should be addressed

• While Elana is on Maternity Leave Nathan Gardner will be ordering First Aid materials for the campus

6. Adjournment/Next Meeting.   • Next meeting will be scheduled for early June, 2016. 3 

Labs and Studios Minutes – January 21, 2026 AC 147 and zoom

Present:   B. Huska,  S. Girvin, H. Staple, M. Sorokopud, A. Diochon, J. Gao, C. Surette

TIME Commenced: 11:00 am hybrid by zoom

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

Nov 2025 Minutes: No Changes

Injuries/Incidents

None

Inspections - 

Completed

• Nursing

• NRM

• Mechanical Engineering

Outstanding

• Paleo DNA lab

• Chemistry

• Science Workshop

Old Business

• Nominations for secretary – no nominations were received.  Committee is OK with health and safety continuing to take minutes. The vacancy for the secretary will remain open as a standing item on every agenda. In case worker members feel differently in future.

• Management member search still ongoing, have talked to one individual who was not sure if they had interest in joining. Search ongoing.

New Business

• Waiting on final members for after hours subcommittee then will begin holding meetings to discuss concerns and try to make the process more uniform and simple. 

• Brenda will reach out to departments for inspections then pose times to the committee.

• Poll will be sent for this semester’s meeting time

• Pool safety protocol subcommittee review has Jarret Sylvestre and Joey Miller from this committee. Will be trying to plan meeting soon.

Other Business

• Vet school is progressing, and looking to complete CASES portion in the spring/summer. Fumehood line was opened causing fume hoods to alarm due to opening. It has since been capped, but the status is unable to be viewed in network system. The physical alarms will still work on the device, so no concern to their use, but a contractor will be fixing it shortly. Plant is looking into adding network monitoring in the CB for the fume hoods. 

• ATAC is having some labs on the 3rd and 4th floor converted from computer labs to conventional labs. 

• Renovation in CB 2029/2030 has one half completed including the fume hood in the space, will be beginning other side’s renovation now. 

• Orillia training for students needs to be updated and is in process. - Still working on this.

Adjournment:  11:38am

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: Feb 18, 2026 time 11:00am unless otherwise determined.

Joint Health and Safety Committee

February 15th 2024

10 am – 11 am

In-person OA 3041  and Zoom

Minutes

Regrets: Carolyn Rimkey, Rosario Turvey

In Attendance: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak, Tajinder Kumar, Chris Glover, Rosa Fabiano, John Siecker,  Allison Brooks, Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay Health and Safety), Rebecca Craigie, Sara Corcoran,  Vicki Te Brugge

1. Approval of Agenda

Approver: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak,

Seconder: Chris Glover

Moved

2. Approval of the Minutes from the last JHSC meeting – November 7, 2023

Approver: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak,

Seconder Chris Glover

Moved 

3. Student Health and Wellness (Sara Corcoran)

• TB Skin Test - Student Health and Wellness has coordinated with our NP partner (COHT Care Clinic) to have TB Skin Tests available for students. Students can get the inoculation done at the Care Clinic location, and then the reading can be done at the Wellness Centre on campus. (Some social work students require TBST for placement).
• Pee for Pizza – The STI testing drive was held on campus on February 7th in partnership with SMDHU to promote sexual health among students.  Relatively low uptake of STI tests however good awareness and stigma reduction. STI tests are available regularly through the NP on campus on Thursdays.
• Health promotion focus areas for the remainder of semester:

Safer substance use - coinciding with St Patrick's Day

March is nutrition month

Burnout & Stress leading up to exams and placements - Both campuses are covered

• SafeTALK training - January's safeTALK was cancelled due to low registration, another workshop is scheduled for February 21st (sign up here). Suggestion from Rosa to work with Caroline to fit it into the PD schedule with Education students

5. Items Arising from the Minutes (last meeting)

• Fire Plan  - Initial plan was for Tajinder to sit down with John and finalize. Tiffany confirmed that the current plan is good to go if there are no changes to the fire plan system. 

6. Injury and Accident Report 

● Staff

None to report at this time

● Sports related

None to report at this time

● Contractors

None to report at this time

● Students

None to report at this time

● Visitor

None to report at this time

7. Lab Update

• Everything is going well and the lab continues to be very busy and has long hours.
• Lab doors are to remain closed during sessions. Some keep the door open during lab sessions. These staff have been reminded to keep the doors shut. Lab Staff will continue to remind staff to keep the doors shut. If this does not work then the next  step is to contact the supervisor of the staff involved
• Water System - The reverse osmosis water system in the 3001 prep room is not functioning properly. We will need to have it repaired. In the short term we are utilizing the water supplied by the reverse osmosis system in the 3002 prep room to supply the needs for both 3001 and 3002 undergraduate labs and research. During this time, we are filling and moving carboys of water for use in the 3001 lab.

8. Items for Discussion

• Lighting – All lights are being changed to LED.

9. Adjournment/Next Meeting. 

● Next meeting

     10. Meeting adjourned

LU Joint Health and Safety Committee - Orillia

May 7th 2024

10 am – 11 am

In-person OA 3041  and Zoom

Minutes

In Attendance: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak, Tajinder Kumar, Chris Glover, Rosa Fabiano, John Siecker,  Allison Brooks, Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay Health and Safety), Rebecca Craigie, Sara Corcoran,  Vicki Te Brugge, Carolyn Rimkey, Rosario Turvey

1. Approval of Agenda

Approver: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak,

Seconder: Chris Glover

Moved

2. Approval of the Minutes from the last JHSC meeting – February 15, 2024

Approver: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak,

Seconder Chris Glover

Moved 

3. Student Health and Wellness (Sara Corcoran)

Health & Counselling Services

• Services reduced for the Spring/Summer term
• Nurse Practitioners can be accessed at their unattached patient clinic at the Hospital
• Counselling can be accessed virtually
• Chiro can be accessed at their clinic
• The Naturopathic Doctor is not available over the summer

• All services will return in the fall

Health promotion

• CMHA Mental Health Week May 6-10^th

• SafeTALK May 6th: Canceled due to insufficient registration - We will be scheduling another one for later in the summer. Can always do them by request if we have a group of at least 10 participants. 

• Supporting Students in Distress: Virtually on May 7th. This will become a self-serve, online workshop on D2L. In-person and virtual will still be available by request

• Kindness bracelets: practice some kindness and compassion and learn about some meditation resources. Drop in May 9th 1:30 - 3pm Simcoe Hall

• Sacred fire hosted by Frazer Phillips, Indigenous Cultural Wellness Facilitator. chance to let go of stress, practice gratitude, and connect with the land. May 9th at 4:30 – 6 pm at Sacred Fire pit.

• Moose Hide Campaign

• Grassroots movement of Indigenous and Non-indigenous men and boys standing up against violence towards women and children. 

• People can wear a moose hide pin to signify a commitment to honour, respect, and protect the women and children in their lives. Pins are available at security.

• Moose Hide Campaign Day Event offered in partnership with ONWG and Georgian on May 16th at 4 pm. The event will be an evening in solidarity against gendered violence on Turtle Island, where we’ll drum, sing, walk, and strengthen the community. 

• 100 hour strava challenge

• Our summer-long health promotion activity, the 100-hour challenge kicks off on Monday next week.

• You can join the challenge by joining our Lakehead group on strava

5. Items Arising from the Minutes (last meeting)

• Fire Plan  - Initial plan was for Tajinder to sit down with John and finalize. Tiffany confirmed that the current plan is good to go if there are no changes to the fire plan system. 

6. Injury and Accident Report 

● Staff

None to report at this time

● Sports related

None to report at this time

● Contractors

None to report at this time

● Students

None to report at this time

● Visitor

None to report at this time

7. Lab Update

Labs have finished for the winter term. Research has started in the labs with Graduate and undergraduate and work-study students. There will be chemistry labs again this summer starting in July and running until the middle of August.

Inventories/ lab materials organization and equipment testing is ongoing in both labs. Biosafety cabinet and Fumehood testing/certification are scheduled for mid-June and July.

One lab water system is under repair and we hope to have these repairs completed and the unit back in place before the start of the summer chemistry labs.

8. Items for Discussion

9. Adjournment/Next Meeting. 

● Next meeting

     10. Meeting adjourned

LU Joint Health and Safety Committee – Orillia

April 2, 2025

11 AM to 12 Noon.

OA3041 and via ZOOM

Minutes

In Attendance: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak, Brea Reid, Katelyn Whitten, Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay Health and Safety), Victoria TeBrugge, Carolyn Rimkey, Sreekumari Kurissery, Madison Temple, Rosamaria Fabiano, Sara Corcoran (Student Health and Wellness), Rebecca Craigie

1. Approval of Agenda

Approver: Victoria TeBrugge

Seconder: Rebecca Craigie  

Moved           

2. Housekeeping

Introductions for Brea Reid - Human Resources Business Partner. Brea serves as the HR representative along with Katelyn Whitten (admin support) on the Joint Health and Safety Committee - Orillia

3. Student Health and Wellness – Sara Corcoran

Health/Counselling Services

- In person services will conclude on April 13, 2025 (in line with currently scheduled last date of classes)

- Virtual counselling supports will be available throughout Spring/Summer for all enrolled students, as well as virtual Nurse Practitioners appointments.

- The Nurse Practitioners also offer in person access to services at the practitioner locations, or can be arranged for on campus days depending on students needs

Health Promotions

- May 5 to 9, 2025: CMHA Mental Health Week

- Safe Talk workshop being offered May 6^th, 2025 from 1:00p.m – 4:30p.m. Workshop is free, registration required and is open to all staff, faculty and students

- Reminder: On Demand D2L ‘Supporting Students in Distress’ workshop/course is always available online

- Wellness Centre Open House: Opportunity for staff and faculty to visit the Wellness Centre to learn about resources that are available to support students

4. Approval of Minutes from last JHSC Meeting

- Victoria TeBrugge and Sreekumari Kurissery to provide an email to Katelyn Whitten regarding amendments to the January 8, 2025 minutes

Approver: Victoria TeBrugge

Seconder: Rosamaria Fabiano

Moved

5. Injury and Accident Report

• Staff

Two slip and fall reports – Security Services Department

1)    Heritage Place – Early January; Security Services team member slipped on the stairs. No lost time, however modified work resulted from incident

2)    University Ave – March; Security Services team member stepped off a curb, slipped and landed on their back. No lost time or modified work resulted from the incident

Committee discussed this season’s effectiveness of snow removal on Orillia campus’s based on a more than normal amount of incident reports pertaining to slips and falls this winter season. Committee agreed that snow removal and sand/salting efforts were satisfactory for the amount of snow and ice received this season. Some notable comments regarding the slip and fall incidents were with respect to reports of inappropriate footwear for the weather.

The Committee also discussed internal slip and fall hazards, such as sandy staircases. Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak provided a reminder that the process to report a need for custodial attention is to call Security to report a hazard or area requiring attention and Security will connect with our custodial team to address the matter. Tiffany Moore recommended making use of the Campus Safety App to submit photographs of hazardous areas.

• Sports Related

None to report at this time

• Students

None to report at this time

Sreekumari Kurissery posed a question for Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay) for clarification on accident reports related to lab equipment, for example, when students elbows bump equipment that lead to broken glassware. Tiffany Moore confirmed that incident reports are not required to be submitted to the Health and Safety Department for such incidents unless there is an injury or a serious safety issue

6. Lab Update – Victoria TeBrugge

- Victoria TeBrugge commented on Sreekumari Kurissery’s question regarding student’s incident reports in the lab.  It was confirmed no incidents required medical attention and all incidents were appropriately cleaned up. No major issues to report

- Majority of the labs are finishing up this week (March 31 – April 4, 2025) depending on the return of classes, which are currently cancelled due to power outages in the community. There are a few outstanding lab tests and assignments due. Faculty and Graduate research will continue while undergraduate lab use is finishing up.

7. Other Items for Discussion

a) Update Terms of Reference

- Committee was provided a copy of the Terms of Reference. Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay) will review and update the Terms of reference to distribute to the Orillia Joint Health and Safety Committee to review for discussion and approval at the next meeting, scheduled July 2, 2025.

b) Monthly Inspections – Tiffany Moore (Thunder Bay)

- The Human Resource Business Partner (Brea Reid) is responsible for leading the Orillia campus building inspections. Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak accompanies on all the walkthroughs, and does the eye-wash station inspections

- Current Orillia Campus practice for inspections is to do a very thorough inspection of all buildings annually in the spring, inspecting one building per day and submitting the necessary work orders

8. Meeting Adjourned

Lakehead University Joint Health and Safety Committee – Orillia

Meeting Date: July 2, 2025

11AM to 12 NOON

OA3041 and via ZOOM 

Minutes

In Attendance: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak, Victoria TeBrugge, Brea Reid, Katelyn Whitten, Brenda Huska (HR Officer – Health and Safety, Thunder Bay), Sreekumari Kurissery, Carolyn Rimkey, John Siecker, Sara Corcoran (Student Health and Wellness), Rebeca Craigie

1. Approval of Agenda

Approver: Vicki TeBrugge

Seconder: Rebecca Craigie

Moved

1. Approval of Minutes from last JHSC Meeting (April 2, 2025)

Approver: Vicki TeBrugge

Seconder: Theresa (T-Bird) Prisciak

Moved

1. Housekeeping

-          January 5, 2025 Minutes to be amended as requested by Vicki TeBrugge and Sree Kurissery – will be provided to Katelyn Whitten via email

1. Student Health and Wellness Update – Sara Corcoran

-          Demand for services has decreased (summer months)

-          Presently no in person appointments on campus. Access to counselling and the Nurse Practitioner can be done virtually or at the clinic in Oro-Medonte

• If there is an increase in demand, an on campus day for appointments may be arranged

-          Looking ahead to September

• Counselling and Nurse Practitioner will return for in person appointments
• Chiropractic will resume for in person appointments, fee of $55 per appointment
• Naturopath Services will have a practitioner change starting in September
• Staff and faculty are eligible to access all paid services

-          Training Opportunities

• SafeTalk – towards the end of August with RA’s, possibility to expand training to the broader community
• Free naloxone training planned for September
• First Aid / CPR / AED Training – on campus, paid training – more information will be provided as details are finalized

1. Injury and Accident Report

-          Staff (1) reported injury 

• Residence / Conference Services Assistant dropped a table on big toe, ended in a break. There was no lost time due to this injury

-          Sports

• None to report at this time

-          Students

• None to report at this time

-          Community (1) reported accident

• A 7 year old child from Day Camp walked/ran into an open windowpane in OA

The JHSC engaged in a conversation regarding the changes to the Incident Reporting system, now online. It was suggested to discuss with Tiffany Moore, Manager Health, Safety and Wellness, about the possibility of having the form automatically submit to supervisors. Currently, employees are required to send the incident report forms to supervisors manually.

1. Lab Update – Victoria TeBrugge

-          Labs are really busy with ongoing summer research

• Faculty and Undergraduate, Graduate and Mi-Tech students are making use of the space everyday
  • Lab orientations and WHMIS training have been completed
  • Lab hours are tracked by way of google calendar

-          Certifications

• Bio-Safety certification has been completed
• Chemical certification has been arranged for around July 10/11, 2025

-          General Updates

• Inventory and reorganization is ongoing
• Vicki will be retiring July 31, 2025. The replacement employee has begun training and will continue throughout the month of July with Vicky

The JHSC engaged in a conversation regarding lab access. Lakehead University has a strong process regarding lab access, including an access list that only allows the properly trained individuals to enter the lab space. Sree commented that there has been one or two situations where un-authorized individuals have walked into the lab area. This item is for further discussion between T-Bird, Vicki and Sree to determine some changes that can be implemented to ensure additional security measures for the lab, and bring awareness to the broader University community to only be in authorized spaces. Confirmed that there are signs on the door that indicate authorized personnel only for entrance.

1. Other Items for Discussion

-          Building Inspections

• Brea and T to connect and complete the inspections
• OA, OR, HP all have reps on the JHSC
• STEM Hub will require a member once in use

-          Updated Terms of Reference – Tiffany Moore (Brenda Huska)

• Brenda provided an updated Terms of Reference to Katelyn Whitten and Brea Reid to review with Tiffany Moore before discussion and distribution to the JHSC. This item is to remain on the Agenda for next meeting

-          Physical Plant Updates – John Siecker

• Areas of campus were sprayed for Poison Ivy, the East tree line – signage is posted
• Tree trimming is completed from post snow/ice storm. Arborists were on campus all week July 2 – 4 cleaning branches from various areas on campus, including farm road, West tree line, East tree line
• The broken branches and down tree limbs are of no danger, although caution is urged in these areas. The promenade will be cleared out July 3, 2025.
  • John to connect with Cynthia regarding the YMCA camp and the work that is being done on and around campus as a safety notice

1. Closing Remarks

-          Thank you Vicki for your time on the Joint Health and Safety Committee. A new co-chair is being discussed between Vicki and T-Bird an will be addressed next meeting.

1. Meeting Adjourned

Labs and Studios Minutes – November 19, 2025 AC 147 and zoom

Present:   B. Huska,  S. Girvin, M., S. Azarhazin, H. Staple, M. Sorokopud, A. Diochon, G. Oba, J. Sylvestre, J. Gao

TIME Commenced: 11:04 am hybrid by zoom

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

Oct 2025 Minutes: No Changes

Injuries/Incidents

Pool Incident: While on duty a lifeguard began to have trouble breathing which did not resolve. They took their puffer (has asthma) and it still did not resolve. Asthma attack occurred and an ambulance was called. Did have missed time. M. Moore completed an inspection and MOL inspected. Area was warmer than normal, swimmers had reported issues with burning eyes and lungs. Checked pool chemical logs and values were in normal range, no additions right before incident. Suggested heat stress resources, fans for guards, and temperature and humidity monitoring for area. -> J. Sylvestre suggested checking what the pool deck was cleaned with for potential chemical reaction that can cause irritation.

Student Burn in chemistry lab: Minor burn with a capillary tube while sealing ends. Student touched hot end to support it while inspecting. Immediately ran it under cool water. Continued to work. J. Sylvestre filed report and spoke to incident, is reminding students that hot glass looks the same as cool glass.

Inspections - 

Completed

• LUIL

• Geology

Outstanding

• NRM - 2 wood lots, greenhouse, jack haggerty. Booking currently as two inspections

• BRI

• Nursing

• Mechanical Engineering

• Paleo DNA lab

• Chemistry

Old Business

• Nominations for secretary – no nominations were received.  Committee is OK with health and safety continuing to take minutes. The vacancy for the secretary will remain open as a standing item on every agenda. In case worker members feel differently in future.

• Management member search still ongoing, have talked to one individual who was not sure if they had interest in joining. Search ongoing.

New Business

• Subcommittee proposed for after hours lab/studio access. J.S. agrees this may be a good idea and to add people external to the committee that have experience with this issue. Researchers that often have after hours students. Reaching out to Deans and security to get interested members. Looking for what tools and protocols could assist them without causing too much additional work. Looking for what the issues are. 

• Will do more calendar invites for inspections.

Other Business

• J.G. brought up tech gas rooms issues as the light is on constantly. S.G. indicated that instrumentation technicians are coming this week to fix the issue, likely a sensor. Looking to put a procedure in place to use portable oxygen sensor when these calls come in and have added signage to contact physical plant instead of room contact. 

• Vet school is progressing, new foundation is in. CASES and ATAC lab demolitions are complete, will have construction to make them new vet classrooms. 

• Smell near CB3027 was reported in the stairwell. A.D. has smelled something, but it did not seem out of the ordinary. No one has any ideas what could be causing it other than potential construction in nearby rooms or Dr. Ho’s work. J.S. to check into Dr. Ho’s work.

• Orillia training for students needs to be updated and is in process. - Still working on this.

Adjournment:  11:47am

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: Dec 17, 2025 time 11:00am 

Labs and Studios Minutes – October 15, 2025 AC 147 and zoom

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

TIME Commenced: 11:00 am hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION M.M. SECOND T.M. Carried. 

Sept 2025 Minutes: MOTION  M.M. SECOND S.G. Carried.

Injuries/Incidents

None that are related to the committee

Inspections - 

Completed

Outstanding

• Geology 

• LUIL - A. Diochon - 9:00am Friday

• NRM

• BRI

• Nursing

Old Business

• Nominations for secretary – no nominations were received.  Committee is OK with health and safety continuing to take minutes. The vacancy for the secretary will remain open as a standing item on every agenda. In case worker members feel differently in future.

• Management member search still ongoing, have talked to one individual who was not sure if they had interest in joining. Search ongoing.

New Business

• Health and Safety policy has been sent upstairs and should be approved and released soon.

• After hours lab/studio access was discussed. VA has had issues with cleaning that has led to discussions around access and how it is given. Discussion on what other dept are doing. Biology: Has a room schedule that BEST has access to. This has classes as well as any other use. After hours security comes and lets students in. They can list restrictions on times for each room. List shared with security of approved individuals. Amanada: Could be an issue accommodating students with work or other commitments. Could use an expectation agreement. Have “keep in touch” mandatory and keep the door open while in the space alone. Tiffany: Accommodations can be limited if there is undue hardship by providing, in this care the H&S impact. Could be limited in hazardous areas based on response ability of security. Development of a risk assessment tool may assist in making these decisions. One should be out hopefully prior to december.

• Parking lot use issue: Car lab was testing the car in the athletics parking lot, but had put up their own pylons and blocked vehicles. Were given an area that they needed to stay within. Physical plant will provide a map of approved area and security will ensure this is being followed. Discussions with Kailash did occur.

• Will do more calendar invites for inspections.

Other Business

• Fit tests are not currently being conducted by health and safety as Brenda receives training. In town Healthtec or Stantec may be options to use since SPI has stopped providing as well.

• ECS Cares is picking up sharps/biomedical waste soon. Please contact if you have any that need disposed of.

• Compressor in Pedram’s space in CASES was very loud. Physical plant members noticed while attending to other business in the area. People working in the space did not report the issue, but were actively avoiding the area when it would run. This occurred for 2 years. After investigating it was discovered that an outdoor compressor was used inside and it is currently being fixed.

• Orillia training for students needs to be updated and is in process. - Still working on this.

Adjournment:  11:39am

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

Labs and Studios Minutes – September 17, 2025 AC 147 and zoom

Present:   B. Huska,  S. Girvin, M. Moore, S. Azarhazin, H. Staple, M. Sorokopud, G. Oba, C. Surette 

TIME Commenced: 11:00 am hybrid by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION M.S. SECOND C.S. Carried. 

July 2025 Minutes: MOTION  M.M. SECOND H.S. Carried.

Injuries/Incidents

Superior Science Employee: M. Sorokopud carried out a small investigation after an employee was hit in the head with a tinfoil ball thrown by campers. It seemed the person involved was having a bad day and this incident pushed her over the edge. Looks that everything was handled appropriately.

Inspections - 

Completed

• Chemical engineering

• ATRC

• LUARS

• Electrical Engineering

• BAF/LUACF

• Biology

• Kinesiology

• LUEL

Outstanding

• Geology – J.Sylvestre

• LUIL

• NRM

• BRI

Old Business

• Nominations for secretary – no nominations were received.  Committee is OK with health and safety continuing to take minutes. The vacancy for the secretary will remain open as a standing item on every agenda. In case worker members feel differently in future.

• Management member – after a long service Francis Appoh has decided to move on from the committee. The committee thanks Francis for his service. We will need a new management member. If any members of the committee have any suggestions please forward them to Brenda.

• Laboratory decommissioning policy is going to one final committee, please make any comments this month.

• Lab safety training has been updated. Now two parts that will expire every 3 years. All those with current training will have it remain valid until we reach the first 3 year mark then all will be required to complete the new version.

New Business

• Health and Safety policy has been sent upstairs and should be approved and released soon.

• Electrical safety issues: Ongoing problem in many labs and offices, if the committee has any ideas related to spreading information please let health and safety know. Also please keep an eye out for these issues during inspections.

• Asbestos air sampling is occurring this week, it is monitoring that is completed regularly to ensure the buildings with asbestos in them are not causing exposure. No readings in the past have shown levels above normal background.

• Health and safety will send out a poll to see if a new time slot would be more suitable for meetings.

• Will do more calendar invites for inspections.

Other Business

• C. Surette raised concern about contractors and if they have training. There was an incident where contractors came two days ahead of schedule so chemicals that the lab staff were going to move had not been moved. Contractors moved the chemicals themselves. S. Girvin indicated that contractor should not be moving chemicals and that in the future people should call physical plant immediately about this. Contractor training is handled by the contractor themselves and workers should have basic training on hazards.

• C. Surette raised concern about emergency contacts for lab spaces and if the information being up to date. Was called about another department’s equipment in the middle of the night. B. Huska indicated there is a list that security has been shared with the information that comes from hazard signs. If hazard signs are not up to date it could cause an issue, need to follow up with security on what they’re using. Security did also ask for department contacts recently.

• Labs are still moving for anthropology and chemical engineering. 

• Orillia training for students need to be updated and is in process.

Adjournment:  ?

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: Oct 15, 2025 time 11:00am