CBSA Message on Container Exams

Friday, 11 July 2008 07:42

The purpose of this message is to outline the situation of fumigant / solvent testing of marine containers for your Association and its members. The CBSA shares your concerns and is taking immediate action to address the current state of our operations, while still ensuring the health and safety of our employees.

As you may be aware, chemical fumigants are widely used in the shipping industry to kill invasive alien species in cargo loads. Historically, the CBSA has relied on a risk-management approach to minimize the risk of exposure to these fumigants. Following an incident of exposure the CBSA was directed by HRSDC to undertake an extensive study to determine the risk of exposure to its employees with regards to fumigants in marine containers. The study indicated the risk of exposure to various fumigants and solvents commonly used within marine containers. As a result of this study, the CBSA now tests all marine containers for the presence of fumigants/solvents prior to examination.

We realize that the testing and ventilation of containers is impacting the movement and release of containers. However, in order to address the serious threat posed by fumigants / solvents and protect the health and safety of CBSA employees, all marine containers must to be tested and ventilated prior to examination. Furthermore, the CBSA is performing duties to the full extent allowed within the directive issued by the Labour Program of Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC).

Please be assured that the CBSA is taking immediate action to address this serious situation. We look forward to working with you’re your association to find solutions that address the operational concerns, while not jeopardizing Canada's national security interests, nor the health and safety of CBSA employees. We will keep you apprised of the ongoing developments with this situation.

Thank you