Understanding the Challenges

Protecting Workers Against Multiple Exposures 

Workplaces often involve exposure to several hazards simultaneously (dust/fibers, VOCs, metals, solvents, noise, heat, biological contaminants). Without a clear profile of these exposures and risks, it is difficult to prioritize control measures and effectively protect your teams.

Controlled Substances and Compliance: OHS Risks and Liabilities 

The presence of controlled substances (e.g., asbestos, mercury, lead, beryllium) and contaminants (mold, bacteria) requires rigorous management practices and intervention methods. Without proper oversight (assessment, procedures, supervision), the risks of non-compliance, incidents, and unforeseen costs increase.

Work Programs: Transforming Requirements into Field Practices 

Even with policies in place, execution can vary: unapplied procedures, insufficient training, poorly chosen equipment, or incomplete documentation. Without robust work programs (respiratory protection, confined spaces, etc.) and tailored training, long-term prevention becomes difficult to sustain.

Our Professionals Have Solutions

Industrial Hygiene: Exposure Assessment and Sampling 

HDS conducts qualitative and quantitative industrial hygiene assessments, including measurements for indoor air quality (dust, fibers, spores, VOCs, etc.), chemical contaminants (metals, solvents, active ingredients, etc.), and physical hazards (noise, thermal stress, etc.). Results are interpreted to guide control measures and prioritize actions.

Management of Controlled Substances and Contamination (Planning and Monitoring) 

We assist with the characterization and management of controlled substances (asbestos, mercury, lead, beryllium, etc.) and microbial contamination (mold, bacteria). HDS can assess the scope, define corrective actions, produce plans/specifications when required, and ensure the monitoring/supervision of decontamination work.

Audits, Plans, Training, and Work Programs (WHMIS, RPP, Confined Spaces) 

HDS conducts health and safety audits and develops tailored OHS programs: risk management, standard operating procedures, respiratory protection programs (RPP), confined space entry programs, etc. We also offer training (including WHMIS) and communication tools to support the sustainable implementation of practices and improve field consistency.

The Benefits of Partnering with HDS

Reduced Exposure Risk and More Effective Prevention 

A structured approach (assessment → measurement → recommendations) allows you to target actual exposures, implement appropriate controls, and reduce health and safety risks while improving overall EHS performance.

Strengthened Compliance and Traceability 

Through audits, work programs, documentation, and monitoring, you establish a solid foundation to demonstrate due diligence, standardize practices, and reduce gaps related to controlled substances and working conditions.

Operational Continuity and Better Intervention Control 

By clarifying responsibilities, methods, and protective measures (JSA, confined spaces, etc.), you reduce unforeseen events, limit disruptions, and enhance the organization's ability to effectively manage high-risk situations.

Service Information Sheet

Qualitative and quantitative health risk assessments, industrial hygiene sampling, characterization and management of controlled substances, asbestos management registers, contamination by microorganisms, health and safety plans and training, WHMIS 2015, work programs.

Typical Activities

  • Expertise in industrial hygiene: assessment of ambient air quality (dust, fibers, fine particles, inhalable fraction, volatile organic compounds, spores, etc.), a sampling of chemical contaminants (metals, solvents, pharmaceutical active ingredients, etc.), noise impacts thermal stresses, asbestos registers, etc.
  • Inspection, evaluation of contamination, the scope of work and monitoring of decontamination sites (asbestos, mercury, beryllium, molds, etc.).
  • Health and safety audits and development of health and safety programs (respiratory protection, prevention, asbestos, etc.) applicable in various sectors of activity (manufacturing plants, chemical and petroleum industries, etc.).
  • Development, implementation, and training of hazardous materials management in the workplace (WHMIS 2015).

Some Relevant Projects

  • Audits in accordance with the protocol of the responsible management of member companies of the Canadian Chemical Industry Association across Canada.
  • Various expertise in industrial hygiene, health and safety and hazardous materials management in the workplace for many industries (pharmaceutical, chemical manufacturing, textile, metal processing, transportation, aerospace, etc.).
  • Evaluation of thermal stresses and noise exposure in many commercial and industrial sites.
  • Qualitative and quantitative assessment of exposure to active ingredients in several pharmaceutical companies.
  • Characterizations and management programs for various controlled substances (asbestos, lead, mercury, beryllium, etc.) and moulds in various public, commercial, industrial or residential buildings.
  • Development and implementation of work programs (respiratory protection, enclosed spaces, etc.) in various industrial sectors (pharmaceutical, aerospace, etc.).

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.