Surveys

Designated Substance Survey

In Ontario, a Designated Substance Survey (DSS) is required before construction, demolition, or renovation work.

Engineer on a construction site reviewing drawings

Why it matters

Know what’s in the building before work begins

Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act requires the owner of a project to determine whether designated substances are present at the project site before tendering, and to share that list with the contractors bidding on the work.

A Designated Substance Survey report identifies those substances, so the project can be planned and carried out safely and in compliance with Ontario regulations.

Designated substances (O. Reg. 490/09)

Acrylonitrile
Arsenic
Asbestos
Benzene
Coke oven emissions
Ethylene oxide
Isocyanates
Lead
Mercury
Silica
Vinyl chloride

FAQ

Common questions

Have a question that isn’t here? Call 905 638 4307 or send us a message.

When is a DSS required?

In Ontario, before construction, demolition, or renovation work.

Who needs one?

The owner of the project is responsible for determining whether designated substances are present before the project is tendered. Contractors rely on the report to plan the work.

What if asbestos is found?

Asbestos work in Ontario is covered by O. Reg. 278/05. We can help with air testing and a contractor referral and estimate for abatement.

How much does it cost?

Every property and project is different. Contact us to discuss your project and request a quote.

Our process

From a clear intention to practical recommendations

Every project with EnviroGuard Consulting and Testing follows the same six steps.

Intention

Every project begins with a clear intention: identifying the purpose of the assessment, whether it’s for asbestos, mould, or indoor air quality concerns.

Methodology

A structured methodology is followed, including careful on-site sampling, air monitoring, and material collection according to recognized industry standards.

Laboratories

Samples are sent to accredited laboratories for analysis.

Results

Laboratory analysis produces accurate and reliable results.

Interpretation

Results are thoroughly reviewed and interpreted to understand potential risks and compliance requirements.

Recommendations

Practical, actionable steps for remediation, safe management, or ongoing monitoring to ensure a healthy and compliant environment.

Why EnviroGuard

Experience, integrity and regulatory conformity

Regulations

O. Reg. 278/05 Asbestos on construction projects and in buildings and repair operationsOccupational Health and Safety Act
O. Reg. 490/09 Designated substancesOccupational Health and Safety Act
O. Reg. 347/90 General waste management, including asbestos wasteEnvironmental Protection Act

Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), the ministry is responsible for regulating occupational health and safety in workplaces, which includes schools, hospitals, and any place where people work.

Experience

With over 30 years of experience in solid waste management across Ontario and 20 years in environmental science, EnviroGuard Consulting and Testing provides expert asbestos, mould, and environmental testing services.

Hands-on knowledge of hazardous material assessment and indoor air quality ensures every project is handled safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with Ontario’s environmental and occupational health regulations.

Integrity

Built on high integrity and regulatory conformity, EnviroGuard delivers precise testing, reliable reporting, and practical abatement and remediation recommendations.

Clients can trust EnviroGuard to protect their buildings, occupants, and projects while maintaining the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Our services