Understanding the Challenges

Exposure Risks and Rapid Decision-Making 

In many buildings, older materials may contain asbestos. During renovation, maintenance, or demolition, certain activities can release asbestos fibers, exposing workers and occupants. Without prior assessment, decisions are made "blindly," increasing OHS risks, site shutdowns, and unforeseen costs.

Compliance and Traceability: The Mandatory Asbestos Registry 

Quebec’s regulatory framework emphasizes the safe management of asbestos: identification, inspection before work likely to emit dust/fibers, and rigorous documentation (including maintaining an asbestos registry according to applicable requirements). Without an up-to-date and accessible registry, it becomes difficult to plan work, inform stakeholders, and demonstrate compliance.

Choosing the Right Site Approach (Risk Levels and Methods) 

Work likely to release asbestos fibers is governed by specific methods and protective measures that vary by task and risk level. Incorrect classification (low/moderate/high risk) or inadequate methods can lead to worker exposure, non-compliance issues, delays, rework, and major OHS incidents.

HDS Implements Relevant Asbestos Solutions

Material Assessment and Characterization (Pre-work) 

HDS assesses the presence of asbestos in suspect materials, including sampling strategies and material characterization when required. Our goal: confirm or deny the presence of asbestos, pinpoint its location, and provide a solid foundation for decision-making—whether for ongoing management, encapsulation, removal, or control measures.

Inspection Registry: Implementation and Maintenance 

We establish and update your registry of materials likely to contain asbestos to ensure traceability (location, condition, results, interventions) and facilitate work planning. A clear registry reduces uncertainty and improves daily risk management.

Asbestos Abatement Plans, Specifications, and Supervision 

HDS prepares asbestos abatement plans and specifications and provides on-site supervision to validate that methods, work areas, and protective measures align with applicable requirements. Under the supervision of our Registered Occupational Hygienist (ROH), we ensure compliant and efficient execution while documenting every intervention.

The Benefits of Working with HDS

OHS Risk Reduction and Worker/Occupant Protection 

By correctly identifying materials and overseeing work, you significantly reduce the risk of asbestos fiber exposure. A structured approach (Assessment → Planning → Supervision) enhances prevention, reduces incidents, and promotes safer jobsites, even during urgent or complex projects.

Simplified Compliance Through Solid Documentation 

A clear registry, precise specifications, and complete traceability facilitate communication with stakeholders and support regulatory compliance. You gain predictability and credibility: information is centralized, accessible, and updated, eliminating "gray areas" when planning or authorizing work.

Enhanced Cost and Schedule Control 

Proper characterization and choosing the right method based on risk levels prevent site shutdowns, scope changes, and rework caused by poor asbestos management. Plans and specifications define the work from the start, and supervision reduces discrepancies, resulting in smoother execution and better-controlled costs.

Service Information Sheet

Professional services for assessing the presence of asbestos-containing materials, preparing asbestos removal estimates, supervising removal work, and establishing and maintaining inspection records for materials that may contain asbestos. Under the supervision of our certified occupational hygienists (ROH).

Typical Activities

  • Building inspections and establishment of regulatory records in accordance with the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (RSST).
  • Intrusive inspections and sampling of materials suspected of containing asbestos (MSCA) in accordance with applicable standards and guidelines.
  • Assessment of the surface areas and volumes of materials involved in potential asbestos removal projects.
  • Determination of corrective measures and risk levels for asbestos removal sites.
  • Preparation of plans and specifications for asbestos removal work.
  • Site supervision and collection of air samples required under the RSST, with preparation of follow-up and final reports following the work.

Some Relevant Projects

  • Implementation of a strategy for material characterization and construction supervision for the environmentally sound demolition of federal buildings.
  • Inventory and characterization of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) at a former foundry site in preparation for site remediation.
  • Update of the asbestos management plan for a research building.
  • Inventory and characterization of ASBMs for the implementation of an asbestos management registry for numerous buildings across Quebec.
  • Characterization of ASBMs in a building’s boiler room and development of an asbestos management procedure.
  • Characterization of ASBMs, drafting of a procedure for handling asbestos, and training of plant employees on asbestos management.
HDS Environment supports you in your operational, regulatory, and environmental challenges.

Our Services

Combining environmental expertise and industrial hygiene, HDS supports companies in the proactive management of risks and compliance. We protect your personnel and facilities through cutting-edge expertise and personalized guidance.