Federal – Transport Canada now conducting virtual remote inspections for Transportation of Dangerous Goods

The pandemic has changed the way many businesses must operate, and Transport Canada is also adjusting. In response to COVID-19, TC has adjusted its method for inspections at locations deemed “Low Risk.”

New remote inspection models have been adopted to allow businesses to provide inspectors proof of their requirements regarding the transportation of dangerous goods (TDG). Inspectors may now reach out by phone and once companies feel the inspector has provided adequate proof of identity, provide the inspector electronic copies of documents (TDG documents, training records, etc.) required to legally transport dangerous goods.

Any facility that does not feel comfortable with the electronic process can opt for an in-person audit. Locations that deem themselves to be operating at minimal capacity and indicate they currently do not have enough staff to support an audit, may request the audit be postponed.

Providing adequate information during a remote audit may result in the site being deemed adequate by the inspector and requiring no further visits.  Identification of issues may indicate TDG industry requirements are not being met and could trigger an inspector visit. Inspectors conducting in-person inspections are required to follow strict COVID-19 measures while conducting those visits.

Depending on the outcome, TC may deem virtual inspections as a functional part of their every day processes, continuing them after the virus response measures are eased.

For any questions regarding this issue, please contact Robert Loenhart, Vice-President, Regulatory Affairs and Safety at robertloenhart@propane.ca.