Flight Updates
by Text
Federal and Provincial regulations are stringent in their requirements for the use, storage, handling and disposal of hazardous materials. WAA monitors its compliance with these regulations and over the years has sought to phase out, where possible, the use of these products. As a general rule, the amount of hazardous products at airports is low by industrial standards. However, where products are in use, WAA’s policy is to substitute non- or less-hazardous products where possible. WAA also obliges its tenants and Airport operators through its leasing program and operating agreements to meet or exceed the requirements of Federal and Provincial regulations on the use, storage, handling and disposal of all hazardous materials.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs)
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) are synthetic chemicals that have exceptional insulation and thermal properties. The chemicals are non-corrosive, chemically stable, relatively inflammable and insoluble in water. As a result of these properties, PCBs were used extensively for insulating and cooling fluids in electrical equipment such as transformers and capacitors. However, these attributes also make PCBs resistant to breakdown if released into the environment. As a result, their use, storage, removal and disposal is now restricted. Since the mid-1990s when PCB substitutes became widely available, WAA has taken an aggressive approach to the phase out of PCBs. Only equipment containing small quantities of low level PCBs, well below Federal criteria, remain. This equipment is being phased out over time and being sent for destruction in compliance with Federal regulations.
Ozone Depleting Substance
Ozone Depleting Substances were used extensively for decades as refrigerants, fire extinguisher agents and solvents. A program to minimize the use of ozone depleting substances was initiated at the Airport in the early 1990. This program has been continued with the result that some of the most damaging of the ozone depleting substances such as halons have been eliminated from use by WAA.
Prevention of Spills
WAA has implemented initiatives with respect to preventing the release of hazardous substances such as petroleum product, and has established appropriate response procedures if an accidental release occurs. WAA ensures that employees are familiar with spill response procedures, and offers annual training to further enhance this knowledge. WAA maintains a detailed log of all spills and follows all remedial procedures and guidelines set in place by Federal, Provincial and Municipal authorities.
