1. WHAT is a Prestart Health and Safety Review (PSR)?
A Pre‑Start Health and Safety Review (PSR) is an audit conducted by a Professional Engineer on any industrial apparatus, protective element, process, or structure. The purpose is to ensure compliance with applicable standards under Section 7 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
2. WHEN is a Prestart Healthy and Safety Review (PSR) required?
According to Section 7 of Regulation 851 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (S.7 of O.Reg. 851) the following items are examples requiring a Pre-Start Review:
Section 7 of Regulation 851 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (S.7 of O.Reg. 851) outlines several situations that require a PSR. For example:
- When a building, room, or area is used to store or dispense flammable liquids
- When protective elements such as:
- Light curtains and screens
- Area scanning systems
- Radio frequency or capacitance systems
- Safety mat systems
- Two‑hand controls
- Barrier guards using interlocked electrical or mechanical safeguards are used
- When racking or stacking structures are installed to store materials
- When processes involving a risk of ignition or explosion are installed or modified
- When a dust collector involves a risk of ignition or explosion
- When a factory produces aluminum or steel, or operates as a foundry
- When a lifting device, traveling crane, or automobile hoist is installed or modified
- When a process uses or produces a substance that may expose workers to limits prescribed by Ontario regulations
Source: https://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/psr/psr_4.php
3. WHY is conducting a Prestart Health and Safety Review (PSR) important?
Conducting a PSR offers several key benefits:
- It identifies safety issues that can be corrected efficiently and effectively.
- It helps uncover potential cost savings through improved work efficiencies and proper equipment installation.
- It ensures safe operation and installation of equipment, reducing the risk of injuries, lost time, and insurance costs.
Moreover, a PSR demonstrates a proactive approach to workplace safety and compliance.
4. WHO conducts a Prestart Health and Safety Review (PSR)?
Only a Professional Engineer can conduct a PSR. In some cases, engineers from multiple disciplines may be required. When this occurs, the names and disciplines of all reviewers must be listed in the report.
Pricing depends on several factors, including the type of machine or equipment, the installation being reviewed, and the technical documentation available. Additionally, you can contact us directly or fill out our online form for a non‑obligatory quote.
5. WHERE can I find more information?
For additional details, visit:
Ontario Ministry of Labour
https://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/psr
Safe Workplace Association
https://www.wsps.ca/resource-hub/checklists/pre-start-health-and-safety-review-psr-frequently-asked-questions