Ontario Regulation 851/90 – Industrial Establishments

by | Jul 14, 2026 | Article, Regulatory Guidance

Overview: Understanding Ontario’s Industrial Establishments Regulation 

Industrial workplaces are some of Ontario’s most complex and high-risk environments. From manufacturing plants to warehouses and maintenance facilities, employers must protect workers from mechanical, chemical, and physical hazards every day. 

Ontario Regulation 851/90 – Industrial Establishments, made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA),  establishes detailed legal requirements governing health and safety in industrial establishments. 

The regulation is broad, covering everything from machine guarding and ventilation to lighting, noise, and maintenance practices. Its purpose is simple: to ensure that every worker in an industrial setting goes home safe. 

This guide simplifies the regulation and highlights the most important areas employers should understand to maintain compliance and foster safer workplaces. 

What Ontario Regulation 851/90 Covers 

Ontario Regulation 851 applies to nearly all industrial establishments, including: 

  • Factories and manufacturing plants 
  • Assembly and processing facilities 
  • Warehouses and storage depots 
  • Workshops, garages, and service facilities 
  • Laundry and maintenance operations 

The regulation addresses a wide range of workplace conditions and hazards. Below are the key sections most relevant to employers and safety managers. 

1. Equipment and Machine Safety

  • All machinery must be properly guarded to prevent access to moving parts. 
  • Before maintenance, cleaning, or repair work is performed, equipment must be disconnected from its power source and locked out and tagged according to established written procedures. 
  • Equipment must be maintained in safe operating condition and repaired or adjusted in accordance with regulatory requirements for maintenance and repair activities. 

2. Workplace Environment and Design

  • Work areas must have adequate lighting, ventilation, and temperature control. 
  • Aisles, floors, and walkways must be kept clear and free from obstructions or spills. 
  • Guardrails or equivalent protective measures must be provided at exposed edges where workers may be exposed to a fall hazard. 

3. Physical Hazards and Exposure Control

  • Employers must monitor and control exposure to nairborne hazards and physical agents in accordance with applicable regulations such as O.Reg. 833, Control of Exposure to Biological or Chemical Agents and O.Reg. 381/15, Noise.. 
  • Where hazards cannot be adequately controlled by engineering or administrative measures, employers must provide appropriate PPE and ensure workers are instructed and trained in its proper use and care.. 
  • Certain processes may also fall under other regulations (e.g., Reg. 833/90 – Exposure to Biological or Chemical Agents or Reg. 381/15 – Noise). 

4. Material Handling and Storage

  • Lifting devices and powered equipment must be operated by competent workers who have received appropriate training and supervision. 
  • Loads must be secured, and materials stored in a manner that prevents collapse or spillage. 
  • Mechanical handling devices must be regularly inspected to ensure they remain safe for use. 

5. Emergency Preparedness and Training

  • Employers must ensure workers are trained and competent for their tasks. 
  • First aid, fire safety, and emergency exits must meet the prescribed standards. 
  • Clear emergency procedures must be in place and communicated to all employees. 

Why This Regulation Matters 

Ontario Regulation 851/90  is one of the primary sector-specific regulations under the OHSA governing safety requirements for industrial establishments.  

Key reasons to understand and comply include: 

  • Reducing injury risks from machinery, equipment, and hazardous materials 
  • Avoiding Ministry of Labour orders, fines, or work stoppages 
  • Improving productivity and morale through safer work practices 
  • Demonstrating due diligence to employees, clients, and regulators 

Simplified Compliance Checklist 

This high-level checklist can help employers and supervisors quickly assess their readiness under Ontario Regulation 851/90. 

Area 

Compliance Focus 

Status 

Equipment & Machinery 

Guards, lockout systems, and maintenance are in place 

☐ 

Workplace Conditions 

Lighting, ventilation, and floor conditions meet requirements 

☐ 

Physical Hazards 

 Unguarded machinery, hazardous energy sources, airborne contaminants, and excessive noise are identified and controlled. 

☐ 

Material Handling 

Loads are secured and mechanical devices inspected 

☐ 

Worker Training 

Employees are trained and competent for assigned tasks 

☐ 

Emergency Procedures 

First aid, exits, and fire protection measures are maintained 

☐ 

If any of these boxes remain unchecked, reviewing your facility’s current safety practices is a good next step. 

Where required under Section 7 of the regulation, a Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (PSR) must be completed before new machinery, processes, or structures are introduced into the workplace. 

Next Steps for Industrial Employers and Safety Managers 

Ontario’s Industrial Establishments Regulation is comprehensive, but compliance doesn’t need to be complicated. Start by: 

  1. Reviewing your current safety programs against the requirements of Regulation 851. 
  2. Conducting internal audits to identify gaps in equipment safety, training, or hazard control. 
  3. Engaging health and safety professionals to support assessments, program updates, or site inspections. 

Creating a culture of safety begins with understanding your obligations—and following through with consistent action. 

Have questions about how Ontario Regulation 851/90 applies to your workplace? 
Contact T. Harris Environmental Management Inc. →