Why Regulatory Insights Was Built for Engagement, Not Just Information

When it comes to regulatory compliance, especially in the world of hazardous products and waste, it’s easy to feel like you’re navigating alone.

You might find yourself reading regulations late at night, cross-referencing TDG and Ontario Reg. 347, or trying to interpret WHMIS responsibilities in a practical, site-specific way. There’s no shortage of information out there — but *information alone* isn’t always enough.

That’s exactly why the Regulatory Insights space at [www.markroehler.com/community] was built — not just to provide guidance, but to foster connection.

Let’s explore the difference between having an **audience** and building a **community** — and why that distinction matters deeply for Canadian professionals like you.

📣 Audience = One-Way Street

An **audience** is passive. They receive content, watch webinars, read blogs, or attend training. It’s helpful, yes — but it’s mostly one-directional.

You could think of it like a classroom where the instructor does all the talking and the learners sit back and take notes. Valuable? Sure. But limited.

🤝 Community = Shared Knowledge, Real Connection

A **community** is interactive. It’s built on conversations. Members ask questions, share experiences, and exchange best practices. The learning flows in multiple directions — and that’s where the real magic happens.

That’s what **Regulatory Insights** is all about.

https://youtu.be/oGTDjoZksK8

Why This Matters in Hazardous Products and Waste

If you handle or manage hazardous waste or dangerous goods in Ontario (or anywhere in Canada), you already know how complex the regulations can be.

They’re not just about memorizing parts of the TDG Act or Ontario Regulation 347 — they’re about **interpreting** them in a way that makes sense for your specific facility, product, or waste stream.

Here’s why a **community model** works better for this work:

 ✅ Regulations Can Be Confusing

Whether it's subject waste classification, waste manifesting, or safety marks on shipments, real-world examples from others in similar roles are *incredibly valuable*.

Hearing how someone else handled a similar scenario can help you avoid mistakes or find a simpler solution.

✅ Missteps Can Be Costly

Errors in classification or documentation don’t just cause delays — they can lead to spills, injuries, and regulatory penalties.

That’s why learning from others’ experiences is just as important as knowing the law.

✅ There’s Strength in Numbers

In our space, there are few places to go where professionals can speak freely about what’s working, what’s not, and what’s changing.

Regulatory Insights is that place.

✅ The Landscape Is Always Evolving

TDG updates. Provincial changes. New interpretations. It’s a lot to track alone — but in a shared space like Regulatory Insights, someone’s always paying attention, and willing to share.

Why You Should Join (and Contribute)

Regulatory Insights isn’t just a resource hub — it’s a **living network** of Canadian professionals committed to safety, clarity, and compliance.

When you join and participate, you’ll:

🚀 Get real-world advice from others who’ve been there.
📚 Access exclusive tools and checklists (like our TDG Classification Checklist).
💡Share your own experience — and become a trusted voice in your industry.
🧭 Help shape future training resources based on real needs.
👥 Build relationships that support your professional growth.

Bottom Line?

**Regulatory compliance isn’t a solo job — and it shouldn’t feel like one.**

If you’re a Canadian professional responsible for hazardous products or waste, join us at www.markroehler.com/community

Let’s move from isolation to collaboration.
Let’s stop talking *at* people, and start building something *with* them.
Let’s turn an audience into a community.

**Join. Ask. Share. Grow.**
We’re better — and safer — together.

We are having a "Social Workshop" on Wednesday October 2 from noon to 1pm EST.  We are asking for professionals with an interest in managing and handling their hazardous products and/or hazardous waste in Canada to show up prepared to engage with their issues and best practices to share.  Come prepared with your webcam and microphone ready so that we can have a virtual workshop to share your knowledge, as well as to learn from others.  This is a free event, but you must register to be able to attend.

Click on the button below to register:

Register here

Agenda for this workshop is as follows:

• Community Networking 10 min
• Q&A Session 20 min
• Breakout Discussions 20 min
• Final Wrap-Up / Discussions 10 min

Fee free to contact Mark at information at footer of this page with any questions you may have on this social workshop.  Also feel free to submit any particular questions you may have on Canadian regulations, in particular WHMIS, TDG or provincial Waste regulations that you would like discussed.

This will be our third attempt at doing a social workshop where we are hoping to bring together professionals with a common mission of learning and sharing knowledge and best practices related to managing, storing and transporting their hazardous products and hazardous waste.

Please share this information with your colleagues so that this free event can be well attended.

On September 4, 2024 from noon to 1 pm EST, we will be having another webinar (or social workshop) to assist our Regulatory Insight Community on how to share their best practices on how they handle their hazardous products and hazardous waste.

Intent is for our community to come prepared to engage with other community members and not simply receive information, but to get engaged and share their best practices in an online environment where private conversations can be shared with others that have a shared mission or value for learning.  There is an expectation that you will come with camera and microphone so that you can engage, meet others with a similar need around hazardous products and waste in Canada.

This community that we are building is for professionals with a need to understand how to properly handle, manage, classify, store, package and ship their hazardous products or hazardous waste to not only meet Canadian regulations but more importantly protect the safety of their workers, community and the environment.

The agenda for this social workshop / webinar is as follows:

• 12 - 12:10 Community Networking
• 12:10 - 12:30 Q & A Session
• 12:30 - 12:50 Breakout Discussions and Sharing of Best Practices
• 12:50 - 1 Final Wrap-up / Future topics of discussion 

We are requesting any specific questions within our community or upon registration for this event that you may wish to have discussed during this event.  Again any specific concern can be discussed live during this event.

Below is an example of what the online social workshop will look like.  There are various tables where you will be able to have private chats and exchange of best practices to hopefully improve on your knowledge and best practices for managing and handling your hazardous products or wastes.

Registration Link

Should you have any questions on this community, or how to register for the webinar, do not hesitate to contact Mark at information in the footer of this page.

The Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Act is a critical piece of legislation in Canada designed to ensure the safe and secure transportation of hazardous materials. Compliance with the TDG Act is essential for protecting public safety, the environment, and the integrity of the transportation system. This article provides an overview of the key requirements under the TDG Act and highlights real-world examples of violations to underscore the importance of adherence.

Key Requirements Under the TDG Act:

Proper Documentation:

• Shippers must provide accurate and complete documentation for all dangerous goods being transported. This includes shipping papers, emergency response information, and any other required documents. Proper documentation ensures that all parties involved in the transportation process are aware of the nature of the goods and the necessary precautions.

 

Approved Means of Containment:

• Dangerous goods must be transported in containers that meet specific safety standards. These containers must be designed, constructed, and maintained to prevent leaks and spills. Using non-compliant or damaged containers can lead to severe consequences.

 

Safety Marks and Labels:

• All dangerous goods must be properly labelled and marked with the appropriate safety marks. This includes placards, labels, and other markings that indicate the nature of the hazardous materials. Proper labelling is crucial for the safety of transport workers and emergency responders.

 

Training Requirements:

• All personnel involved in the handling and transportation of dangerous goods must receive adequate training. This training ensures that employees are knowledgeable about the risks associated with dangerous goods and the proper procedures for handling them safely.

 

Incident Reporting:

• Any incidents involving the transportation of dangerous goods must be reported to the appropriate authorities. Prompt reporting allows for a timely response to mitigate any potential risks to public safety and the environment.

 

Real-World Examples of Violations

Improper Documentation and Labelling (2020):

A company in Ontario was fined $25,000 for failing to provide accurate shipping documents and not displaying the required safety marks on containers transporting hazardous chemicals. This violation posed a significant risk to emergency responders and the public.

Inadequate Training (2021):

A logistics company in Alberta faced a $50,000 fine for not providing adequate training to its employees handling dangerous goods. The lack of proper training led to an incident where improperly secured hazardous materials leaked during transport, causing environmental contamination.

Non-Compliant Packaging (2022):

A shipping company in British Columbia was fined $75,000 for using non-compliant packaging for transporting flammable liquids. The packaging failed to meet the required safety standards, resulting in a spill that caused a fire at a storage facility.

Failure to Report an Incident (2023):

A transportation company in Quebec was fined $100,000 for failing to report a dangerous goods incident as required by the TDG Act. The incident involved a collision that resulted in the release of toxic gases, posing a severe risk to public health and safety.

https://youtu.be/pa_2lMcQjZk

Conclusion

Adhering to the requirements of the TDG Act is not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the transportation process. The real-world examples of violations highlight the serious consequences of non-compliance, including substantial fines and potential harm to public health and the environment. By following the TDG Act’s guidelines, companies can contribute to a safer and more secure transportation system in Canada.

If you have any questions or need further information about the TDG Act or Regulations, feel free to reach out by using contact information below in footer!

Community sites like "Regulatory Insights" provide invaluable benefits for professionals dealing with Canadian regulations on hazardous products and waste. By joining this community, you can stay informed, gain expert insights, access valuable resources, and connect with a network of peers who share your professional responsibilities and challenges. Visit markroehler.com/community today to become a part of this thriving community and enhance your regulatory knowledge and compliance efforts.

If you want to learn more about our Regulatory Insights Community and how it works, we will be having a free webinar on Wednesday August 7, 2024 from 12 - 1 pm EST.  You can join this webinar free by visiting the following link:

https://webinar.markroehler.com/e/regulatory-insights-community-ov

Understanding Community Sites and the Benefits of Joining "Regulatory Insights" What is a Community Site?

A community site is an online platform where individuals with common interests, goals, or professional responsibilities can connect, share knowledge, and collaborate. These sites foster interaction among members through forums, discussions, resource sharing, and networking opportunities. Community sites are particularly valuable for professionals seeking to stay updated with industry trends, gain insights from peers, and access specialized resources.

Benefits of Community Sites:

Knowledge Sharing: Community sites provide a space where members can exchange information, share best practices, and learn from each other's experiences. This collaborative environment helps members stay informed about the latest developments in their field.

Networking Opportunities:

Members can connect with like-minded professionals, forming valuable relationships that can lead to new opportunities, partnerships, and professional growth.

Access to Resources:

Many community sites offer exclusive resources such as articles, webinars, research papers, and tools that can aid in professional development and decision-making.

Support System:

Being part of a community means having access to a support network where members can seek advice, ask questions, and find solutions to challenges they face in their professional lives.

Professional Development:

Community sites often host events, workshops, and training sessions that contribute to members' ongoing education and skill enhancement.

 

Why Join "Regulatory Insights" at markroehler.com/community?

"Regulatory Insights" is a specialized community designed for professionals who deal with Canadian regulations related to Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG), Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), and provincial waste regulations. Here are some compelling reasons to join this free community:

• Stay Compliant: Keeping up with the constantly evolving regulatory landscape can be challenging. "Regulatory Insights" offers up-to-date information and expert insights on TDG, WHMIS, and provincial waste regulations, ensuring that you remain compliant and avoid potential fines or legal issues.

• Expert Guidance: Gain access to a network of professionals and experts who can provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you navigate complex regulatory requirements.

• Resource Library: The community provides a wealth of resources, including regulatory updates, compliance checklists, best practice guides, and case studies, all tailored to the specific needs of professionals handling hazardous products and waste.

• Interactive Discussions: Participate in forums and discussions where you can share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from the challenges and successes of your peers.

• Networking and Collaboration: Connect with other professionals in your field, fostering relationships that can lead to collaborative projects, new opportunities, and enhanced professional growth.

• Free Membership: Joining "Regulatory Insights" is completely free, making it an accessible resource for all professionals, regardless of their organization's size or budget.

Conclusion

Community sites like "Regulatory Insights" provide invaluable benefits for professionals dealing with Canadian regulations on hazardous products and waste. By joining this community, you can stay informed, gain expert insights, access valuable resources, and connect with a network of peers who share your professional responsibilities and challenges. Visit markroehler.com/community today to become a part of this thriving community and enhance your regulatory knowledge and compliance efforts.

Register to Join

Competency Training

What is competency training as it relates to Canadian transportation regulations and as an employer.  How do I ensure my employees are adequately trained and that I can prove it.

Competency training in the context of Canadian transportation regulations refers to ensuring that employees possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform their job functions safely and effectively. Specifically, it focuses on training individuals who handle, offer for transport, or transport dangerous goods by road, rail, marine, or air in Canada.

Here are key points related to competency training and how employers can ensure their employees are adequately trained:

Training Requirements:

• Employers must ensure that employees receive proper training and hold a valid training certificate.
• Training requirements are outlined in Part 6 of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR).
• Employees must be trained in both general awareness (basic concepts of TDG) and function-specific training (requirements specific to their job).

In other words, the employee should understand how to complete their job function as it relates to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Training Certificate:

Every person transporting dangerous goods must hold a training certificate or work under the direct supervision of a trained person.
The training certificate includes details such as:

• the employee’s name,
• the training aspects covered,
• and the certificate’s expiry date.

Employers must verify the validity of training certificates.

There is no specific design of how the TDG training certificate must look, as long as the required information with employee and employer signature are there.

Record Keeping:

Employers must keep records of training, including:
Who was trained.
Materials used for training.
Copies of training certificates.
These records must be maintained from the date the certificate is issued until two years after its expiry date.

Competency-Based Training (CBT):
CBT focuses on specific competencies or skills required for job functions.
It breaks down jobs into individual functions and ensures employees are competent in each essential part of their roles.
Evaluation should verify that employees are legally and safely capable of performing their job functions.

Transport Canada intends to update Part 6 of the TDGR to incorporate Competency-Based Training.
The changes aim to replace the vague term “adequately trained” with specific competency requirements.
Employers will need to comply with the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) standard for competency-based training.

Proof of Training:

• Employers must issue training certificates to employees.
• These certificates serve as proof of training and competency.
• Ensure that employees understand the importance of retaining their certificates.
• Remember that maintaining accurate records, verifying training certificates, and adopting competency-based approaches are essential for ensuring compliance and safety in the transportation of dangerous goods.

Sample TDG Certificate

https://youtu.be/gHPbU8DPEN0

Welcome to a safer future for your workforce and the environment. At Mark Roehler Training Services, we understand the critical importance of Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) training for your organization. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and expertise in dangerous goods management sets us apart as your trusted partner in cultivating a culture of safety, compliance, and responsible practices.

Why Choose Us?

1. Unparalleled Expertise: With over 38 years of hands-on experience in the field, we are well-versed in the intricate world of dangerous goods transportation. We bring a depth of knowledge that not only meets regulations but goes beyond, equipping your employees with the practical skills needed to navigate real-world challenges.

2. Tailored Solutions: We recognize that each industry and workplace is unique. Our TDG training programs are thoughtfully crafted to address the specific risks and scenarios your employees encounter. Whether you deal with corrosives, flammables, or other hazardous materials, our customized approach ensures maximum relevancy and effectiveness.

3. Focus on Competency: Our training philosophy centers around fostering true competency, not just memorization. We empower your employees to understand the "why" behind regulations, enabling them to make informed decisions and respond confidently in diverse situations. This deeper understanding leads to safer practices and more reliable outcomes.

4. Regulatory Excellence: Staying compliant with evolving TDG regulations is no small feat. Our commitment to staying up-to-date with the latest changes ensures that your training remains current and in sync with the dynamic regulatory landscape. Avoid penalties, legal pitfalls, and operational disruptions by partnering with experts who are always ahead of the curve.

The Urgent Need for Competency TDG Training:

The transportation of dangerous goods is a complex process with potential hazards. Failing to prioritize proper training puts your employees, your company, and the environment at risk:

1. Human Safety: Mishandling hazardous materials can lead to injuries, illnesses, or worse. Empower your workforce to identify, prevent, and respond to potential dangers, minimizing the likelihood of accidents and fostering a safer workplace.

2. Legal and Financial Consequences: Non-compliance with TDG regulations carries heavy penalties that can significantly impact your bottom line and reputation. By investing in our competency training, you proactively shield your organization from costly legal battles and operational setbacks.

3. Environmental Impact: Inadequate handling of dangerous goods can result in environmental contamination and irreversible damage to ecosystems. Equip your team with the knowledge to mitigate these risks and contribute to a sustainable future.

Partner with Mark Roehler Training Services Today:

Investing in competency TDG training is an investment in the well-being of your employees, your business, and the planet. At Mark Roehler Training Services, we take pride in being your dependable source of expertise, guidance, and empowerment. Our commitment to excellence and dedication to safety make us the partner you can trust to elevate workplace practices and ensure compliance.

 

 

Contact us today to learn more about how our tailored TDG training programs can transform your organization into a beacon of safety, responsibility, and professionalism. Let's embark on this journey together, and build a safer, more secure future for all.

Possible fines and penalties

Companies that do not comply with Regulation 347  regarding subject waste may face a variety of consequences, including:

• Legal action: The MECP or other regulatory agencies may take legal action against companies that do not comply with Regulation 347, which can result in fines, penalties, and even criminal charges.

• Loss of permit or license: Companies that do not comply with Regulation 347 may lose their permit or license to operate, which can result in significant financial losses and damage to their reputation.

• Reputational damage: Companies that do not comply with Regulation 347 may face reputational damage, which can negatively impact their business and relationships with customers and suppliers.

• Environmental damage: Noncompliance with Regulation 347 can lead to environmental damage, which can result in significant costs for cleanup and remediation.

• Liabilities: Companies that do not comply with Regulation 347 may be liable for any harm caused to human health or the environment as a result of their noncompliance.

It is important for companies to understand and comply with all relevant regulations.  These regulations could be related to subject waste, including Regulation 347 and the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDG).  Doing this, will help to avoid these consequences and protect the environment, human health and their business.

Services Mark Roehler Training Services can provide 

Mark Roehler Training Services can provide you with a waste management program to assist you in maintaining compliance with Ontario Regulation 347 for managing subject wastes as well as any corresponding legislation such as TDG.

Did you know that as of January 1, 2023. Subject wastes must be present in the RPRA Hazardous Waste Program Registry (HWP registry)

As of January 1, 2023, businesses and institutions subject to Ontario’s Regulation 347 must report their activities and pay fees through RPRA’s online Hazardous Waste Program Registry.  The HWP registry replaced the Hazardous Waste Information Network (HWIN) system operated by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. This means that all subject waste streams previously in HWIN needs to be in the HWP registry.   Your waste streams must be in the registry in order to be able to complete an electronic waste manifest and ship your subject waste off site for treatment or disposal.

What is the Hazardous Waste Program Registry?

The Resource Productivity & Resource Authority (RPRA) was directed by the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) to build and operate a digital registry that enables regulated persons to comply with the reporting requirements of the Hazardous Waste Program, and to support users of the new registry. The Hazardous Waste Program Registry replaces HWIN and includes an online reporting portal and electronic manifesting solution. A mobile app called RPRA HazTrack is used for creating electronic manifests. The new system enables the regulated community to report on their waste management activities electronically. RPRA built the registry and mobile app in consultation and collaboration with ministry, industry and external technology partners. The Hazardous Waste Program made no changes to the classification criteria or reporting requirements of subject wastes. However, the reporting requirements outlined in Regulation 347 will be managed and tracked through the HWP registry.

Using the Registry

Register the subject waste in the HWP registry to allow the shipping, storing, processing and or disposal offsite.  Generators, carriers, and receivers must have an account in the new registry to be listed on a manifest, create, edit or sign manifests, or report on-site waste activities, among other activities. If you are unsure on what your requirements are under Ontario Regulation 347, or whether you have subject wastes or even if your subject wastes have been transferred to your HWP registry simply click here to schedule a meeting to discuss this requirement with Mark Roehler of Mark Roehler Training Services.

How can Mark assist you?

Mark can review your waste streams to verify as to whether they are in fact subject wastes.  Additionally Mark will review the waste streams for classification information.  Ontario Regulation 347 and TDG classifications within your RPRA HWP registry will be verified.  Mark can also assist in setting up your HWP registry if incomplete.   If information in the RPRA HWP registry is inaccurate, the manifest  generated will have non-compliant information.  This will result in possible fines and penalties under Regulation 347, TDG or both. Feel free to reach out to Mark by clicking here to schedule a complimentary consultation call to review your current situation and how Mark Roehler Training Services can assist you in managing your subject waste streams. Mark Roehler Training Services can provide regulatory training on Ontario Regulation 347 and TDG.  Mark can develop a site specific waste management program for your faciity.  Do not hesitate to reach out to determine how we can be of assistance.   You can schedule a meeting to discuss your subject waste by clicking here.