TORONTO, ON, April 21, 2026 - Spring showers may bring flowers but torrential downpours, milder temperatures and the thawing of some mass accumulations of snow across parts of Ontario could bring serious flooding threats and consequences. As the risks of seasonal flooding increase, so do the potential hazards related to fuel-burning equipment and elevators. Additionally, disruptions to major energy systems during floods may prompt people to use unsafe power generation alternatives. The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is reminding Ontarians to avoid taking unsafe actions, ‘fixes or alternatives.

Reduce the risks and potential of harm.

• Never use any fuel-burning appliances indoors that are specifically designed and approved for outdoor use only such as portable, fuel-fired generators, BBQs etc., as they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, and other dangers.
• Keep outdoor generators away from open windows, doors, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from infiltrating living spaces.
• Avoid using portable fuel-burning devices like generators and propane BBQs in enclosed areas such as garages or covered patios, as this can lead to carbon monoxide buildup.
• Exercise caution when using commercial ventilating fans to dry out a basement, as this could create negative pressure, allowing carbon monoxide from household appliances to re-enter the home. Ensure proper ventilation during this process.
• Never use elevators in a flooded building as water can accumulate in elevator shafts or adversely affect an elevator's operation leading to entrapment or injury. 

If you're unsure about the safety of a specific TSSA-regulated equipment or device during floods, contact TSSA for more information. 

Quotes 

“CO is a leading cause of accidental poisonings in Ontario. That’s why it’s so important that residents do not compound a hazardous situation, such as a flood, by exposing themselves, families, friends and pets to potential CO risks. It’s critical that any fuel-burning appliances designed for outdoor use only, such as portable fuel generators or BBQs, remain just there – outside – to avoid the potential or CO poisoning, fires or other hazards.” Owen Kennedy, Director, Fuels Safety Program, TSSA 

“In buildings impacted by flooding, the elevators can potentially be compromised. Water can accumulate in elevator shafts or adversely affect an elevator’s operation, creating a dangerous situation for passengers including entrapment or injury. It’s important to never use elevators in a flooded building or where there is any indication that water has leaked onto elevator components.” AJ Kadirgamar, Director, Elevating and Amusement Devices Safety Program, TSSA

About TSSA 

Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) administers provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services includes public education, authorization, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, compliance support, enforcement, and prosecution activities.

 www.tssa.org  

For more information or to arrange media availability, please contact: 

TSSA 

Ammara Khan 

Director, Communications 

Technical Standards and Safety Authority 

Telephone: 416-734-2728 

Email: media@tssa.org

Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is sharing a safety bulletin issued by the Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan (TSASK) after safety issues involving hoist ropes have been identified on certain Torin ER6 elevator machines in Saskatchewan. 
 
According to the bulletin, hoist ropes failed on a Torin ER6-221P7 geared elevator machine in December 2025. The ropes, which were replaced on February 2, 2024, failed after approximately 600,000 runs. TSASK advised that:

• Three elevating devices with this configuration have been sealed due to hoist ropes not meeting ASME A17.6 requirements.
• Two additional devices have been issued priority orders requiring hoist rope replacement within 30 days.
• Inspections of similar installations continue. TSASK will update findings after inspections are completed.

TSSA is sharing this information for awareness among Ontario owners, contractors, and maintenance personnel. While there are several similar installations in Ontario, no comparable incidents have been reported to date. Read the TSASK bulletin for details.

This communication was sent to contractors and web subscribers of elevating devices and owners of Torin elevators. 

A slew of changes to the Ontario Fire Code will take effect on January 1, 2026.

The changes will improve harmonization of the Ontario Fire Code with the 2020 National Fire Code of Canada and introduce new requirements to enhance fire-prevention safety. This includes changes to where carbon monoxide (CO) alarms must be placed in existing homes, including detached or semi-detached houses, townhouses and cottages.

The updated requirements apply to all existing homes that have any of the following:

• A fuel-burning appliance (like a furnace, water heater, or stove that uses natural gas, propane, oil, or wood)
• A fireplace
• An attached garage
• Air for heating that comes from a fuel-burning appliance not contained within the home (e.g., an appliance in a utility shed).

If your home meets any of the conditions above, a CO alarm must be installed:

1. Adjacent to each sleeping area (near all bedrooms)
2. On every storey (floor) of your home, including storeys that do not have a sleeping area

These requirements are outlined in Section 2.16 of Division B of the Fire Code (O. Reg. 213/07).

Changes introduced through O. Reg. 87/25: Fire Code also align with recent updates to the Ontario Building Code, including new requirements for CO alarms in existing residential and care occupancies. Click on the respective links for detailed information on new CO alarm requirements for:

• Care occupancies
• Multi-unit residential buildings

Click here for details on other changes introduced by O. Reg. 87/25.

Hyperbaric chambers are pressure vessels designed to provide oxygen therapy for patient care in medical facilities. As hyperbaric chambers are categorized as Pressure Vessels for Human Occupancy (PVHO), they fall under the regulation of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA).

The importance of hyperbaric chamber safety was highlighted by an incident in January 2025, when a hyperbaric chamber exploded in Detroit, Michigan. The explosion resulted in the immediate death of a five-year-old child who was undergoing treatment in the pressure vessel. 

To ensure the safety of hyperbaric chambers, TSSA conducts regulatory reviews and inspections on the following: 

Hyperbaric Chambers 

• Register Designs: Hyperbaric chamber designs must be registered with TSSA for review to ensure they comply with adopted safety codes and standards. Applicable codes and standards include CSA B51 Boiler, Pressure Vessel, and Pressure Piping Code, and ASME PVHO-1 Safety Standard for Pressure Vessels for Human Occupancy. Each hyperbaric chamber must have a nameplate stamped with a Canadian Registration Number (CRN). 
   
• Manufacturing Quality Standards: TSSA conducts manufacturing inspections of hyperbaric chambers manufactured in Ontario. Ontario manufacturers are audited by TSSA and issued a certificate indicating their quality systems and process are compliant with the codes and standards. 
   
• Undergo a First Installation Inspection: Before a hyperbaric chamber can be used for patient care in Ontario, it must undergo a first installation inspection by TSSA to ensure the installation is compliant. If a hyperbaric chamber passes the first installation inspection, a unique identification number is assigned, and a Certificate of Inspection (COI) issued allowing the hyperbaric chamber to be put into service. 
   
• Display COIs Prominently: COIs must be posted on or near hyperbaric chambers, or a notification in lieu of posting the COI which clearly indicates the alternate storage location for the COIs. COIs indicate that a device has been inspected and can be safely operated. As such, they shall be available for viewing at all times.  
   
• Periodic Inspections for Pressure Vessels Fitted with Quick Openings: PVHOs that can open and close quickly for repeated internal access are classified as Pressure Vessels Fitted with Quick Opening Doors. These vessels undergo an annual periodic inspection by either TSSA or the insurance company’s inspector to assess their continued safe operation and to renew their COI. 

Medical Gas Piping

• Cryogenic Pressure Vessels are also Regulated: Cryogenic pressure vessels that supply oxygen to hyperbaric chambers also require a CRN and a COI.
• Register Designs of Medical Gas Piping: TSSA regulates the design and installation of medical gas piping. Since piping designs are unique to each location, they must be registered and reviewed by TSSA engineers.
• Installation by Certified Contractors: Only contractors with a valid Certificate of Authorization (COA) from TSSA are allowed to install and commission medical piping systems. TSSA regularly inspects and audits contractors with a COA.
• Post-Installation Inspection by Certified Inspectors: All registered medical gas piping is inspected by certified inspectors during the commissioning process. 

Hyperbaric chambers must be built using designs and systems compliant with well-established codes and standards and manufactured in facilities with quality control systems. Additionally, hyperbaric chambers must be installed by a competent contractor and inspected periodically to ensure they are maintained and can operate safely.   

For more information on registering hyperbaric chamber designs, please send an email to bpv_inquiries@tssa.org. 

TORONTO, ON, January 13, 2025 – Carbon monoxide (CO) continues to be a leading cause of accidental poisoning in Ontario. With approximately 65% of all CO incidents occurring in people’s homes, TSSA urges everyone to be ‘WinterWise’ this season and learn about how they can protect themselves against this invisible, odourless and highly poisonous gas - often dubbed the ‘Silent Killer’.

As part of the Technical Standards and Safety Authority’s (TSSA’s) ongoing efforts to build CO awareness in communities across the province, residents in parts of Southwestern, Eastern and Northeastern Ontario regions will be receiving a copy of an important safety booklet – WinterWise – this week. This campaign, together with the ongoing public education efforts of community fire and emergency services departments, provides vital information to assist residents in reducing CO risks in their homes.

“During the cold weather months there’s naturally an increased use of furnaces and fireplaces, and even though these fuel-burning appliances may be safely designed, they can emit deadly levels of CO gas if not properly installed, inspected and maintained regularly,” says Kelly Hart, TSSA’s Director of Fuels Safety. “While CO presents serious hazards, residents can essentially eliminate any potential harm, by taking these two important steps,” adds Hart.

• Have all fuel-burning appliances inspected annually through the services of a TSSA-registered fuel contractor 
  • to find a TSSA-registered contractor near you use the Find A Registered Fuels Contractor Tool at cosafety.ca. 
• Install certified CO alarms in your home, regularly test and replace them in accordance with manufacturer’s instruction.

“It’s also important to remember to never use any fuel-burning appliances indoors that are specifically designed and approved for outdoor use only,” adds Hart.

Residents are encouraged to learn more about CO and other seasonal safety topics by reading and sharing the information in the WinterWise booklet and by visiting COsafety.ca – a website dedicated to providing critical CO safety information.

TSSA continues to partner with local fire and emergency services and other safety-minded organizations to deliver critical CO safety information to residents in communities across Ontario.

The attached backgrounder provides additional information on carbon monoxide. 

Stay one step ahead of CO – Beat the Silent Killer. Take Action. Think Safe. COsafety.ca

About TSSA 

The Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) is one of Ontario’s public safety regulators mandated by the Government of Ontario to enforce provincial safety regulations and enhance public safety. Throughout Ontario, TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education and consumer information, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support and enforcement and prosecution activities. The organization’s vision is to be a valued advocate and recognized authority in public safety.

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For more information or to arrange media availability, please contact:

Alexandra Campbell 

Vice President, Communications, Stakeholder Engagement and Customer Service

Technical Standards and Safety Authority

Telephone: 416-734-6227

Email: media@tssa.org

For more information on the Technical Standards and Safety Authority, visit www.tssa.org. 

As summer rolls around, amusement parks are not the only places opening their doors for a season of thrill and fun.

With summer upon us, event organizers in schools, camps, townships, municipalities and shopping malls may be holding various events that involve amusement and inflatable devices like bouncy castles to draw crowds, raise funds or simply generate excitement.

Renting amusement and inflatable devices from licensed owners who drop off these devices on their customers’ premises can create safety gaps, such as failing to ensure these devices are installed properly and operated by trained attendants.  

Before renting inflatable devices, it’s important to be aware of the safety requirements you need to comply with and how to ensure the amusement and inflatable devices on your premises are operated safely. 

Photo Caption: Ontario Regulation 221/01 (Amusement Devices) does not apply if the rented amusement devices are operated in private dwellings (including the land upon which the private dwellings are situated) and used exclusively by the owner or occupants and their guests. Private events held in churches, schools and parks are not considered private dwellings. Amusement and inflatable devices that are not used in a private dwelling must comply with O. Reg 221/01.

As summer heats up, nothing is more thrilling than an exhilarating trip to an amusement park. Whether you're a roller coaster enthusiast, a go-kart driver, or a zip line adventurer, following safety guidelines is the best way to make your amusement park experience fun – and worry-free. 

Here are five ride smart tips to keep in mind for a safe summer at amusement parks:

1. Follow Age, Height, Weight, and Health Restrictions
Before hopping onto any ride, spend some time to read the posted age, height, weight, and health restrictions. Meeting the physical requirements for the ride's intensity will keep you safe. 

2. Observe All Posted Safety Rules
Each amusement ride has its own set of safety rules. Follow all instructions provided by ride operators and any recorded announcements or signs. These guidelines are meant to protect you, so always pay attention to them.

3. Secure Your Posture 
Keep your hands, arms, legs, and feet inside the ride or water slide at all times. Never stand when the ride is in motion and stay seated until told by a ride operator to exit. 

4. Use Safety Equipment Properly
Amusement parks provide various safety devices like seat belts and lap bars to keep you secure. Always use these safety devices as intended and never attempt to loosen or remove them while the ride is in motion. 

5. Avoid Using Phones on Rides
Avoid using cell phones on rides. Distractions like texting, answering calls, taking photos or videos could lead to accidents. Besides, phones can slip out of your hands or pockets, causing potential harm to yourself or other riders. Be sure to stow your phones safely, along with other loose items, including wallets, sunglasses, cell phones, and hats. 

Safety is essential for maximum amusement park fun. This summer, make sure you're the safety superhero for yourself and your family. Keep the excitement high and the worries low by adhering to safety measures on every ride.

TORONTO, ON, May 16, 2024 –   As Ontarians prepare to marshal in the unofficial start of the summer season, with BBQs leading the march, make sure to light it right when you light it up this May ‘2-4’ long weekend…..and beyond.

Get Ready. Get Set. Get Sizzling…safely by keeping these fuel-burning BBQ safety tips in mind:

Clean It, Check It and Test It 

• Clean all burner ports and tubes. Use a pipe cleaner or wire to ensure burner ports are free of rust, dirt, spider webs or other debris. 
• Examine the hose leading from the tank to the burners. Replace if cracked or damaged. 

• Find leaks by applying a 50/50 solution of water and dish soap to propane cylinder connections and hoses. If bubbles appear, it could mean gas is leaking out. Tighten the connection and/or replace the damaged parts and retest before using your BBQ.

Light It Right 

• Place your BBQ or grill on a level surface in a well-ventilated area. 
• Make sure there are no combustible materials near your BBQ. 
• Never lean over the grill when you are lighting it. 
• Open the hood and keep it open until the BBQ is lit. 
• Turn the gas release valve on. Turn on the burner controls or heat settings. 
• Take a step back. 
• Push the igniter button or use a barbecue lighter. 

• If it does not ignite right away, turn the gas off and wait five minutes, keeping the lid open before you try again.

Keep It Outdoors

• Always barbecue outside in a well-ventilated area – BBQs are approved for outdoor use ONLY. They emit carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can lead to unconsciousness and even death. 
• Don’t position your BBQ too close to wooden or vinyl fences or walls. Make sure the area behind your BBQ is free of combustible material, since this is where hot gases escape. 

• Don’t use or store propane cylinders inside any structure.

Stay Safe

• BBQs are intended to be attended. 
• Never leave your grill unsupervised while it’s in use. 
• Keep kids and pets away from the BBQ. Position a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergency. 
• Keep any flammable items/liquids away from the BBQ. This includes the use of hand sanitizers. 
• Never lean over a grill when it’s in use. 
• Don’t allow grease to build up on the burners, lid or at the base of the BBQ as this could cause a grease fire. 

• Never throw water on a grease fire – this will only spread the flame.

BBQing on a Balcony 

Ontarians living in apartments and condominiums should be aware of additional safety restrictions and potential hazards related to BBQ use on balconies. Barbecues may be prohibited by the municipality or in the Condominium bylaws of your building or prohibited by the building owner or property manager, so be sure you are aware of any restrictions in place for your building.

IF permitted to BBQ on your balcony:

• Your balcony must be open, with no enclosures or walls that could restrict airflow. 
• You must keep your propane cylinder on the balcony and connected to your barbecue. 
• Keep your barbecue clear of any combustible material. 
• Make sure the propane cylinder’s relief valve is at least one metre from any building opening. Also make sure it is three metres from any mechanical air intake. 

• When transporting a propane cylinder to your apartment or condo, you must use a service elevator. If your building has no service elevators, you may use the passenger elevator, but you must be alone in the elevator. 

For additional BBQ safety tips, download a copy of our BBQ Safety Tips brochure or check out and share our animated safety videos. For more information on barbecue safety visit us at www.tssa.org. 

About TSSA 

Throughout Ontario, the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) enforces provincial safety regulations and enhances public safety. TSSA regulates the safety of amusement devices, boilers and pressure vessels, elevating devices, fuels, operating engineers, and ski lifts. Its range of safety services include public education, certification, licensing and registration, engineering design review, inspections, investigations, safety management consultation, compliance support, enforcement and prosecution activities. 

PARTNERING FOR A SAFE ONTARIO 

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For more information, please contact: 

Alexandra Campbell 

Vice President Communications, 

Stakeholder Engagement and 

Customer Service 

Technical Standards and Safety Authority 

Telephone: 416-734-6227 

email:media@tssa.org