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

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. 

• Human Resources: 

• Introduced sickness/Injury pages on website with information on the steps required for sickness and injuries. https://www.lakeheadu.ca/faculty-and-staff/departments/services/hr/health-safety/tb/occupational-health/workplace-injury-or-sick-from-work-

• Introduced pages for workplace accommodations on website. https://www.lakeheadu.ca/faculty-and-staff/departments/services/hr/health-safety/tb/occupational-health/medical-accommodations-employee-

• 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

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

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 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

• New website for illness/injury shared with committee. https://www.lakeheadu.ca/faculty-and-staff/departments/services/hr/health-safety/tb/occupational-health/workplace-injury-or-sick-from-work-

• New website for medical accommodations shared with committee. https://www.lakeheadu.ca/faculty-and-staff/departments/services/hr/health-safety/tb/occupational-health/medical-accommodations-employee-

• Workplace Violence Prevention Program

• Service Animal Policy being developed. Suggested committee members speak to colleagues at other institutions to see if there are any ideas of how we can handle service animals in laboratory environments. 

• Committee was informed of the MOL inspection that occurred the previous week after an anonymous complaint of unsafe chemical handling around the pool and lack of training and PPE. MOL was satisfied with the area, PPE provided, and training. No orders given, report is posted on health and safety bulletin board.

• Committee was informed of an ergonomics program being developed. For laboratory spaces the program will most likely take the form of information about how to work in a more ergonomic manner.

• A.D. asked about funding of ergonomic purchases in research labs, raising concerns that grant funding may not allow the purchase of those items.

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 

Labs and Studios Minutes –Nov 27 2024

Present:   T. Moore, M. Moore, A. Diochon, C. Surette, M. Sorokopud, H. Forsyth, S. Azarhazin, K. Bhatia

TIME Commenced: 3 PM by zoom

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

Sept 25, 2024 Minutes :  MOTION M.S.  SECOND M.M.  Carried.

Injuries/Incidents

Hydrology Lab CB0043. Cut on hand working with gabions (wire wall filled with rocks) without hand protection.  No incident report submitted, so student information is sparse. Cut resistant gloves on order, but no list of all users of the space and work being done. Structures Lab CB1044 - Currently the space is closed for access after hours until training and access lists can be created and proper SOPs can be formed for training. Further details are being sought. 

Anthropology

Awaiting incident report on trip and fall during field training that resulted in a minor scrape to the knee with no medical aid required. Full report will be shared with the committee at the next meeting.

Inspections - 

NRM - Eyewash station not working, water in lights, ceiling tile damaged in BB-1016, BB-1071A ceiling tile down, roof damaged/leaking in BB-1061

LUIL - No issues

CHEM - generally okay  - One eyewash needed to be tested.

LUEL - Table in front of electrical panel

ANTH - Mixed storage 

Science Workshop - External contractor moved through active workspace without PPE or notice/asking about work being done (machines in use in the machine shop).  Similar issue with CHEM (Campbell lab in CASES)

KINE - Cylinder storage need caps, fire pull station too high (previously accessible with stairs), basketball nets in front of exit, eyewash tag needed

LUARS - smoke detector needs battery, guards missing from mower, flammable storage, buildup boxes/bags of stalks, fire extinguisher blocked. 

NURS - water leak from roof (repeat issue).  Cold complaint (seemed fine upon reinspection). 

PSYCH - generally fine, but lead paint peeling in storage room (1002A). 

Student H&C - No Issues

Mech Eng - CB-1010 key issue (piece broken in lock). Propane stored in the lab, cylinder storage issues. ESA certification marks not visible on some items. Door signs to update, eyewash to be checked regularly - some eyewash needing resecured and dust covers replaced. Cord end replacements. Loose shelving needing re-secured. Some lifted tiles. 

BRI - eyewash cards illegible. Compressed gas cylinder storage issue.

PALEO DNA - safety shower close to electrical outlet. To follow up to ensure GFCI or distance to closest receptacle.  

Outstanding

Biology CASES

Outdoor Rec

Powerhouse

Fire Lab

Old Business

Biosafety Inspections – Sudip Rakshit

Autoclave logbook, SOP update, lab signage update

TA Training Site

Not much feedback so far. General notice to go out.

Labs Unsecured Report

Decreased since September (10), October (2), November (1).

Chemical Waste Pick Up

Waiting for quotations.  Pickup will be scheduled once a vendor is selected.

New Business

Lab Safety Policy

Approved and on website

Decommissioning of Laboratories and Laboratory Equipment Policy

Q. What about moving into areas with residues in cabinets/fumehoods/etc. A. Whomever has control of the space when vacating, has the proper knowledge to decontaminate the materials before they go to a new order. A2 Before moving into a new space, identify any decontamination safety concerns to your appropriate Chair/Dean/Director so that work can be done before you move materials into the space. There are many challenges if this is left until after a faculty member leaves the university.

Reminder that lab decommissioning should be done before members leave/retire even if they are returning as Emeriti. This should also be done whenever members move spaces. 

The committee will review and submit any additional comments on the updated Lab Decommission Policy by Dec 3, 2024.

Workplace Violence Policy

Received approval. Other policies. Given issues occuring at other institutions, members are recommended to review the policy.

Lab Decommissioning – Phil Fralick/Roger

Plan for materials in place and decommission actions will begin soon. 

Alternate Designate for CUPE

Elected from CUPE at AGM. 

The committee welcomes Maral Ghaedibardeh, phD candidate from Civil Engineering Department.

Acid Bath Safety Resource

Available to the committee or workers to use for reference.

Other Business

Adjournment:  3:47 pm

NEXT REGULAR MEETING: 

Labs and Studios Minutes –Sept 25, 2024 

Present: M. Moore, M. Sorokopud, S. Azarhazin, J. Gao, K. Bahatia, S. Girvin, H. Forsyth. TIME Commenced: 3:04 PM by zoom 

1.0 Agenda : MOTION SG. SECOND MM, Carried.  

2.0 Aug 28, 2024 Minutes : MOTION MM. SECOND SG. Carried. 

3.0 Injuries/Incidents 

NRM – Student felt dizzy with difficulty breathing and standing after working with malt agar.  Student was transported to hospital for treatment. By the time transport to hospital arrived,  student was on the mend. Just an FYI for committee, not anything lab related, medical incident. Structures Lab – Student caught working alone in structures lab. Structures lab requires buddy  system. Student was asked to leave by Security. It was later found that student was not on valid  access list at Security – they said they were let in by a professor. When people request access,  Security ensures the buddy system is known and student needs buddy to sign out keys. 

4.0 Inspections 

NRM – Jarrett – not present/no report submitted – tabled to next meeting 

LUIL – Jarrett - not present/no report submitted – tabled to next meeting 

Physics – M. Moore – major issues were cylinders stored on cart/tilted back – not ideal for storage  and multiple height straps, old chemicals in decent quantities that need to be disposed of,  equipment not clear if ESA approved. H. Forsyth reminded committee that it is illegal to use  electrical devices that do not meet electrical code certification requirements. 

Biology – Kailash – It was noted that CASES rooms were missed so will need to complete. H. Forsyth asked how to proceed in booking remaining inspections - There are 9 left and 2 months  left to inspect. It was agreed that times/dates will be booked and sent to the group to sign up for.  

5.0 Old Business 

Biosafety Inspections – NOSM Research – nothing major, needs records for fume hood – SG  confirmed that this is scheduled for next week, needed lab signage, needed eyewash/shower testing  tags 

TA Training Site - Sent out to science grad coordinators – waiting on reviews – have not received  any yet – will follow up via email for comments. M. Moore asked to be added to course to review. 

Labs Unsecured – Up tick in labs found left unlocked – 5 in the last couple of weeks

Chemical Waste Pickup – Will be seeing emails regarding waste requests - H. Forsyth will be picking  up some chemicals and bringing to storage area. You will need to sign off on what is removed working on this over the next couple of weeks. H. Forsyth will be sending all waste requests in the  system so far – please confirm if anything is missing. SG inquired about PACI chemicals – Faculty of  Education giving up labs – in the chemical store area – abandoned chemicals – H. Forsyth has had  the chemicals boxed up and will be organizing with Shipping to bring to campus. SG let committee  know there is 1 surplus flammables cabinet if anyone is interested. Biology potentially interested. 

6.0 New Business 

 Prescription Safety Glasses – Cen Can expo – cheap prescription safety glasses – if anyone wants  contact information please let H. Forsyth know. 

 New Chemical Engineering Tech – They have hired someone for the position – Mr. Hughroy Staple.   

7.0 Other Business 

Eye Wash Tags - H. Forsyth has eyewash tags if anyone is lacking. 

8.0 Adjournment: 3:27 pm 

9.0 NEXT REGULAR MEETING: October 23, 2024 3:00 pm

Present: H. Forsyth, A. Diochon, M. Sorokopud, S. Azarhazin, M. Moore, C. Surette, S. Girvin, G. Oba

TIME Commenced: 3:02 PM by zoom 1.0

Agenda : MOTION AD. SECOND CS, Carried.

2.0 July 24, 2024Minutes : MOTION CS. SECOND AD. Carried.

3.0 Injuries/Incidents None

4.0 Inspections MVA - Completed by Gabriel – Major issues were a roof leak in UC-1022A and cluttered room. Elect Eng – Completed by Gabriel – Nothing major, carpet needed fixing. NRM - Completed by Jarrett – tabled to next meeting as Jarrett not present, no report submitted ATRC - Completed by Jarrett and Heidi – No issues – needed outer door signage hung up Physics - Completed by M.Moore – tabled to next meeting as M. Moore entered meeting late Biology – Completed by Kailash – Major issues - unlabelled bottles, cylinders needing proper straps, leaning shelf, report submitted. Kaliash not at meeting – can provide more details at next meeting. Chem Eng – Completed by M. Moore and Heidi – Major issues – missing straps on cylinders, confirm ESA certifications on machines BAF/LUACF – Completed by Jane and Heidi – No major issues

5.0 Old Business TA Training Site - created online – will be sent out to grad coordinators for review this week. Biosafety Inspections – Biology Biosafety Inspection completed – no major issues, lots of door signage needing to be updated Civil Lab Structures – Tiffany discussed with new technologist awareness of additional training required. Update on the crane controls – the controls were switched over to a remote system this spring/summer.

6.0 New Business Labs Unsecured Report - 51 labs since March left unlocked. The worst month was May. The number has gone down significantly from May to July. It was mentioned some maintenance staff leave doors open. Report is unable to provide information on who is leaving doors unlocked, however, Tiffany reaches out to maintenance staff, housekeeping, and those occupying the labs to be vigilant of locking the doors. This appears to have resulted in less doors being left unlocked.

7.0 Other Business CB 1016 Exhaust Fan – Replacement fan on order. Older Chemicals – M. Moore gave reminder to replace unreadable/faded labels. As people retire, we will not know what they are – there is a cost to identify unknown chemicals so that they can be disposed of. Fume Hoods – S. Girvin gave update on fume hoods in lab spaces. 6 fume hoods did not pass – varying stages of repair. 2 Controllers failed – working on replacing. 2 in Chemistry Dept had rotten ducts – duct work being replaced. Autoclaves – S. Girvin gave update on autoclaves. Pressure relief valves replaced. Believes they can be certified – not out of date.

8.0 Adjournment: 3:18 pm

9.0NEXT REGULAR MEETING: September 25, 2024 3:00 pm

Minutes

October 9th, 2024.

Start 10:30 am

Zoom 

Present

Carolyne Stevens (COPE)

Élaine Doiron (COPE)

Gabriel Oba (LUFA)

Patrick Larin (Schedule II)

Sue Viitala (Schedule II)

Tiffany Moore (Human Resources)

1. Approval of Agenda –Approved as written.

2. Acceptance of Minutes (19 April 2024) –
   Moved: Gabriel / Seconded: Carolyne / Approved as written.
   
   

3. Outstanding Business –

A) September 11, 2024: Please note this JHSC meeting was tabled due to conflicting schedules and unforeseen circumstances.

B) Violence in the Workplace Policy: The form is now live. It is regarding the reporting of domestic violence.

4. Inspections – Update that workers group do inspections so Schedule 2 is omitted. Priority buildings are Bora Laskin, CASES, Ryan Building, School of Nursing and Student Central. During the summer, the following buildings were inspected: Centennial Building, Hangar, Nordic Sports Institute/ Wolf Den and Sanders Fieldhouse.
   Action: Élaine to send a Doodle Poll and will follow up with Tiffany regarding the buildings inspected so far.
   
   

5. Injury and Accident Reports – None.

6. New Business/Open Discussion – 

1. LUSU office: In the summer of 2024, LUSU has expressed interest in getting their office inspected.
   Motion: Gabriel moves that this committee conducts inspections of the LUFA office on the 4th floor of the Centennial Building with the condition that a LUFA member is present at the time of the inspection.
   Seconded: Carolyne
   Approved
   Action: Tiffany will reach out to LUFA.

2. Management Co-Chair is needed for this committee: Patrick will be chairing the meetings.

7. Next meeting – in-person in December 2024 at 10:30am.

8. Meeting adjourned at 11:00 am.

Present:   T. Moore, C. Surette, M. Sorokopud, S. Azarhazin, K. Bhatia

TIME Commenced: 2:31 PM by zoom

Agenda :  MOTION S.A. SECOND K.B. Carried. 

November 2024 Minutes :  Deferred to next meeting.

Injuries/Incidents

Biology - trained student received a steam burn when unloading autoclave forgetting to put on heat resistant gloves.  First aid was applied, medical attention was not required.  Re-training to be conducted.

Inspections - 

ORPT - S.A. and H. F. - nothing to report

Powerhouse - M.M. and H.F. - deferred

Biology (CASES) - M.M. and H.F. - deferred

Outstanding

Fire Lab

Old Business

None

New Business

Structures Lab SOPs - shared with the committee, please review and provide comment before the end of the week.

Lab Safety Officer - full time position recruitment in process.  Competition has closed and interviews conducted.  

Other Business

Lot 5 building grad offices hear beeping.  Beeping is the result of a faulty sensor on an alarm that is due to be replaced. 

K.B. Office very cold, and ceiling tiles missing.  T.M. to follow up with physical plant

Exhaust fan for welding not replaced and hole not covered.  11C in shop. T.M. to follow up with physical plant.

Adjournment:  2:44 pm

NEXT REGULAR MEETING:  February 19 at 2:30 pm