Pre-Start Health and Safety Review & Machine and Process Safeguarding
Next: August 18, 2026
Pre-Start Health and Safety Review & Machine and Process Safeguarding
In Ontario there is a legal requirement to perform a Pre-Start Health and Safety Review (“PHSR”) in situations where a machine or process is installed or modified, and one or more prescribed circumstances exist. In most circumstances, the PHSR must be performed by a licensed Ontario Professional Engineer. And, most of those circumstances require the Professional Engineer to evaluate the adequacy of planned machine and process safeguarding, to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and consensus technical standards. Understanding the “who, what, when, where, why and how” of PHSRs is important for prevention of harm to workers, and essential for compliance with regulatory obligations.

What You'll Learn
Who This Course Is For
Course Format & Delivery
FAQs and Notes
When is a Pre-Start Health & Safety Review (PHSR) legally required in Ontario?
In Ontario, a PHSR may be legally required under Section 7 of the Industrial Establishments Regulation (O. Reg. 851) when machinery, equipment, or processes are installed, modified, or rebuilt and prescribed circumstances exist. This course helps employers, supervisors, engineers, and safety professionals understand when a PHSR is required — and when it is not — helping organizations stay compliant while protecting workers from serious machine-related hazards.
Why is machine safeguarding training critical for workplaces?
Machine motion hazards can lead to severe injuries including crush points, entanglement, amputations, and struck-by incidents. This course develops awareness of common machinery hazards and teaches participants the key principles of safeguarding design, lock-out/tag-out, and hazard prevention strategies that reduce risk and improve workplace safety performance.
What will participants learn about machine safeguarding and compliance?
Participants will learn the safeguarding design process from hazard identification through safeguard selection and implementation. The course also explains the relationship between machine safeguarding, machine isolation, and lock-out/tag-out procedures. By understanding these critical elements, organizations can better meet OHSA and O. Reg. 851 compliance obligations while improving worker protection.
Can organizations conduct PHSRs in-house?
Yes — in many situations, organizations can establish internal systems and procedures to support the PHSR process. This course explains the roles, responsibilities, and competencies needed for an effective PHSR team, while also clarifying when a licensed Ontario Professional Engineer is required. Participants leave with practical knowledge they can apply immediately to strengthen internal safety and compliance programs.
Who should take the Machine Safeguarding Fundamentals & PHSR course?
Employers and supervisors overseeing machinery safety
Maintenance personnel and engineers
Health and safety professionals and JHSC members
Individuals involved in machinery installation, modification, or safeguarding
Organizations supporting or conducting PHSR processes
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Cathy. B
Zencorp Mechanical Inc.
