In British Columbia, an environmental protection plan should address several key areas. Here's a breakdown of what to consider:

1. Waste Management:

   • Minimize waste generation whenever possible and recover materials if feasible 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.
   • Dispose of products, solutions, packaging, and by-products in compliance with environmental protection and waste disposal legislation, including regional and local authority requirements 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.
   • Use a licensed waste disposal contractor for surplus and non-recyclable products 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.
   • Never dispose of waste into sewers, drains, or watercourses 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.
   • Handle and dispose of containers safely, avoiding soil, waterway, drain, and sewer contamination 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.
   • Do not re-use empty containers 2, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18, 20.

2. Emergency Preparedness for Climate-Related Events:

   • Identify potential climate-related emergencies (flooding, poor air quality, etc.) and assess risks to workers, property, and the environment [1].
   • Develop written procedures to prevent and respond to each climate emergency, assigning responsibilities to designated personnel [1].
   • Ensure you have the necessary resources to execute emergency plans safely, including trained personnel, equipment, PPE and communication equipment [1].
   • Your plan should include detailed lists of emergency response personnel, evacuation routes, and designated safe areas [2].
   • Establish a process for monitoring weather forecasts and air quality, and communicating alerts to workers [2].
   • Regularly review and revise plans, especially after drills or actual emergencies [2].

3. General Emergency Planning:

   • Emergency plans should specify procedures for handling sudden or unexpected situations to prevent fatalities and injuries, reduce damage, protect the environment and accelerate the resumption of normal operations [3].
   • Conduct a vulnerability assessment to understand the likelihood of different situations occurring and what is necessary to manage them [3].
   • Consult with relevant individuals and groups, including employees, supervisors, safety officers, and external experts 6, 7.

4. Handling and Storage:

   • Avoid contact with skin and eyes, and inhalation of vapors and mists 16, 19.
   • Exercise care when handling or opening containers 16, 19.
   • Ensure proper ventilation in storage areas 16, 19.

5. Spill Management:

   • In case of a spill, wear personal protective equipment and remove persons to safety 16, 19.
   • Prevent the spilled material from entering soil, subsoil, surface water, or drains 16, 19.
   • Contain and clean up spills using appropriate methods and dispose of the waste correctly 16, 19.

By addressing these key areas, you can create a comprehensive environmental protection plan that aligns with British Columbia's regulatory requirements and promotes a safe and sustainable workplace.