Environmental Management System
Environmental Management System (“EMS”)
Table of Contents
Environmental Management System
(EMS)
2007 Edition
A Guide for Environmental Management & Compliance
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Environmental Management System
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (“EMS”)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
GENERAL
1. Company Profile
2. EMS Manual
3. Access to the EMS
PART II
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
1. Policy Statement
2. Goals
(a)
Procedures & Guidelines
(b)
Communication and Education
(c)
Waste Management
(d)
Chemical Control and Emergency Procedures
(e)
Environmental Initiatives
(f)
Environmental Audits
PART III
1.
2.
3.
4.
ELEMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
SYSTEM
Planning
Implementation
(a)
Legal and Other Requirements of Environmental Best Practices
(b)
Structure and Responsibility
(i)
Board of Directors
(ii)
Executive and Senior Management
(iii)
Employees
(c)
Environmental Compliance and Management Training
(d)
Environmental Targets and Objectives
(e)
Implementation of Sustainable Practices
(i)
Conservation
(ii)
Recycling
Checking and Correction/Internal Environmental Reporting Requirements
(a)
Annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review
(b)
Monthly Reports
(c)
Annual Green Report
(d)
Incident Reports
(e)
Document Control
Management Review and Environmental Review
(a)
Environmental Advisory Committee
(b)
Environmental Review Team
PART IV
APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
PART V
CONCLUSION
APPENDIX A EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
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Environmental Management System
PART I
1.
GENERAL
COMPANY PROFILE
MTS Allstream Inc. (“MTS Allstream”) is one of Canada’s leading national
communication solutions providers, delivering innovative products and services through
its Consumer Markets and Enterprise Solutions divisions. The Consumer Markets
division serves residential and business customers in Manitoba with a full suite of
wireline voice, high-speed Internet and data, next generation wireless, digital television,
security and alarm monitoring services. Our Enterprise Solutions division provides
national business customers with a world-class portfolio of IP-based connectivity,
managed network services, and professional services. MTS Allstream's extensive
national broadband fibre optic network spans more than 24,300 kilometres, and provides
international connections through strategic partnerships and interconnection agreements
with other international service providers. MTS Allstream is a subsidiary of Manitoba
Telecom Service Inc. (“MTS”).
While the Environmental Management System (“EMS”) is most relevant to MTS
Allstream as the largest operating subsidiary of MTS, it also applies to other MTS
subsidiaries including AAA Alarm Systems Ltd. and Delphi Solutions Corp. Collectively
throughout this manual, the MTS group of companies will be referred to as MTS
Allstream.
MTS Allstream’s facilities are located throughout Canada, in both densely populated
urban centres as well as in remote rural locations. MTS Allstream has an obligation to
protect and preserve the environment wherever MTS Allstream carries on its business.
Environmental Management is part of MTS Allstream’s approach to management,
providing the framework to balance and integrate the economic interests of the company
with the requirements of environmental protection. MTS Allstream’s Environmental
Management System (“EMS”) reflects the vital importance that MTS Allstream places on
the protection and preservation of the environment and conservation of natural
resources. The objectives of the EMS are formulated based on international standards
for environmental management systems as articulated by the International Standards
Organization (“ISO”) and the Canadian Standards Association (“CSA”).
This EMS Manual functions as both an operational manual and as a reference guide for
environmental compliance and management for all employees of MTS Allstream. It is
comprised of several components which specify the organizational structure,
responsibilities, practices, procedures and resources used in implementing MTS
Allstream’s Environmental Policy (the “Environmental Policy”) and complying with
environmental law. The EMS emphasizes prevention, rather than detection and
remediation of environmental problems by:
•
•
•
Identifying and ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations and
industry standards;
Identifying the significant environmental effects arising from the organization’s
existing or proposed activities, products or services;
Identifying the environmental effects which could arise from incidents, accidents
and potential emergency situations;
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Environmental Management System
•
•
•
Facilitating corrective action, process improvement, systems auditing,
communication, training and review activities to ensure that the Environmental
Policy is complied with and that it remains relevant; and
Monitoring new and emerging environmental laws, regulations and standards;
and
Establishing and updating operational processes and procedures.
This EMS Manual contains:
•
•
•
2.
The MTS Allstream Environmental Policy;
The key elements of the MTS Allstream Environmental Management System;
and
References to the separate operational guides used by the relevant business
owners to effectively manage the aspects of MTS Allstream’s operations which
raise identified environmental issues. These are: the Environmental Matrix;
Emergency Response Procedures; and, the Environmental Compliance
Procedures.
EMS MANUAL
The predecessor to MTS Allstream’s current environmental management system, MTS’s
Environmental Code of Practice, was developed in 1992. It contained a mission statement
that expressed concern for the environment and supported the principles of sustainable
development. MTS Allstream’s current Environmental Policy, which evolved from the
Environmental Code of Practice, was officially approved by the Board of Commissioners (as
it then was) in June,1995. The existing Environmental Policy was reviewed by the MTS
Allstream Board of Directors in August, 2005 at which time the Board of Directors confirmed
that the Environmental Policy would be applied to both the Enterprise Solutions and
Consumer Markets divisions of MTS Allstream.
The EMS requires the MTS Allstream Board of Directors to review the Environmental Policy
once per year as part of their responsibility to ensure the Environmental Policy is up to date
and that it reflects principles consistent with effective management of environmental issues.
In addition to adopting and regularly reviewing the Environmental Policy, MTS Allstream has
developed the EMS, as more fully described below, and has undertaken an environmental
risk assessment to identify each of the environmental issues raised by its operations. This
regular review process ensures that the EMS remains current and is responsive to change,
as circumstances dictate.
For each issue, MTS Allstream has developed specific operational procedures, which:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Specify the means to achieve the goals of environmental protection and conservation
of resources;
Provide for ongoing assessment and re-assessment of environmental risks;
Identify the applicable environmental law;
Identify the persons responsible for compliance supervision and support of MTS
Allstream Environment Programs;
Identify operational practices and procedures of employees in managing the issue;
Specify relevant employee training requirements;
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Environmental Management System
•
•
•
•
•
Set the requirements for waste reduction, disposal, re-use and recycling;
Set out emergency response procedures;
Specify the internal reporting and documentation requirements;
State the external regulatory reporting obligations; and
State MTS Allstream’s audit and review requirements.
The environmental aspects of MTS Allstream’s operations are set out in detail in MTS
Allstream’s Environmental Matrix. The specific operational procedures to be used are set
out in the Environmental Compliance Procedures. Procedures applicable to emergency
situations are set out in the Emergency Response Procedures.
The Environmental Policy, the statement of goals for and the elements of the EMS and the
Environmental Matrix and Procedures, come together to make up the EMS.
MTS Allstream’s “Environment Officer” holds the position of Manager, Environmental
Programs, and is responsible for implementation of the EMS. This position is a full time
position and reports to designated Executive/Senior Managers (Chief Human Resources
Officer, Vice President Corporate Services) as to the status and adequacy of the EMS. As
well, the Environment Officer coordinates and conducts the annual Environmental
Management & Compliance Review. The incumbent in this position also makes
recommendations regarding staff training on matters pertaining to the environment.
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Environmental Management System
3.
ACCESS TO THE EMS
The EMS, including the Environmental Matrix, Emergency Response Procedures and
Environmental Compliance Procedures, can be accessed through a number of internal,
online tools available to employees. The EMS manual is available in hard copy upon
request.
Relevant business units, Executive/Senior Managers and employees are made aware
of, familiarized with and kept up-to-date on the content of the EMS and associated
requirements applicable to their individual business units and jobs in the company
through various methods, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
New employee orientations
New hire training
Pre-determined and job specific training modules covering environmental
management, health and safety
Sign-off of job specific training modules by employees
Recording completed training in MTS Allstream’s learning management
system(s)
A continuous cycle of revisiting and reviewing training modules
Communication of environmental issues, incidents and/or requirements by the
Environment Officer and Environmental Review Team
New communication or training programs created to respond to new
environmental laws, regulations and standards
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Environmental Management System
PART II
1.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
POLICY STATEMENT
MTS Allstream is committed to conducting its business in a manner, which reflects
concern for the environment and supports the principles of sustainable development1.
2.
GOALS
Procedures & Guidelines
• To develop and implement procedures and guidelines which will give effect to
the Environmental Policy.
• To comply with applicable laws and regulations regarding the environment
and sustainable development.
Communication and Education
• To encourage and foster environmentally sensitive attitudes, knowledge and
skills of employees through communication, education and community
involvement.
• To provide an annual report to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on
environmental matters affecting MTS Allstream.
• To provide reports to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on
environmental matters affecting MTS Allstream whenever the Board has to
make decisions.
Waste Management
• To set objectives and seek out measures within all operational groups which
demonstrate commitment to sound environmental practices, which minimize
the creation of waste and which maximize the principles of reduce, re-use
and recycle within MTS Allstream.
• To dispose of waste in an environmentally sound manner.
Chemical Control and Emergency Procedures
• To identify and inventory substances used in MTS Allstream and substitute,
wherever practical and reasonable, environmentally friendly substances.
• To develop and monitor environmental emergency procedures and train
appropriate staff for emergency situations.
Environmental Initiatives
• To encourage innovative technology, products and services that contribute to
the preservation of the environment or minimize negative environmental
impacts.
Environmental Audits
• To monitor procedures for compliance with applicable environmental laws,
regulations and the EMS.
1
For the purposes of the Environmental Policy, sustainable development is generally defined as “meeting the needs of the
present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”
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Environmental Management System
PART III
ELEMENTS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
The EMS begins with the Environmental Policy. It employs the elements of planning,
implementation, checking/correction and management review which may in turn result in
changes to the Environmental Policy. The elements flow as follows:
Environmental Policy
Management Review
FIGURE 1
MTS Allstream’s
EMS
Checking and Correction
3.
Planning
Implementation
PLANNING
MTS Allstream undertook a risk assessment process to identify and plan for key
environmental aspects of the activities, products and services of MTS Allstream. This
risk assessment resulted in the creation of MTS Allstream’s Environmental Matrix,
Emergency Response Procedures and Environmental Compliance Procedures.
The Environmental Matrix, Emergency Response Procedures and Environmental
Compliance Procedures are maintained as separate operational guides associated with
the EMS Manual and are maintained by the Environment Officer. They are reviewed and
updated on a regular basis as part of the annual Environmental Management &
Compliance Review or as required due to changes in environmental laws, regulations
and standards or changes to MTS Allstream operations.
4.
IMPLEMENTATION
(a)
Legal and Other Requirements of Environmental Best Practice
Part IV of this EMS manual identifies the type of environmental laws
which are generally applicable to MTS Allstream operations. The
separate Environmental Procedures serve as a guide to specific legal and
other environmental best practice requirements. However, each
Executive and Senior Manager of MTS Allstream is required to be aware
of new legal requirements, industry standards and changes in legal
requirements and industry standards which are directly applicable to the
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Environmental Management System
environmental aspects of that Executive or Senior Manager’s group’s
functions. Executive and Senior Managers are responsible to implement
and monitor compliance with those changes. Each Executive and Senior
Manager is required to assess the legal and other requirements
associated with any new process or new product/service which is being
planned. Non-compliance is not permitted and is to be reported to the
Environment Officer immediately for corrective action.
(b)
Structure and Responsibility
All employees are required to be familiar with the Environmental Policy,
the elements of the EMS and those parts of the Environmental Matrix
and Procedures which involve their particular job functions or groups. To
effectively implement the EMS, MTS Allstream’s Board and Executive:
•
•
•
Provide resources essential to the implementation and control of the
EMS;
Appoint specific management representatives who have defined
roles, responsibilities and authority for ensuring that the EMS
requirements are established, implemented and maintained; and
Require regular feedback on the performance of the EMS for review
and as a basis for improvement of the EMS and for taking corrective
measures as appropriate.
Responsibilities of each level of authority within MTS Allstream are
allocated as follows:
(i)
MTS Allstream Board of Directors
The MTS Allstream Board of Directors is responsible for:
•
•
•
•
Ensuring the development of the Environmental Policy and the
EMS by the MTS Executive and ensuring the allocation of
appropriate resources for their implementation;
Monitoring corporate compliance with the Environmental
Policy and EMS, as reported by the Executive, ensuring
accountability by the Executive and ensuring that corrective
action is taken when necessary;
Ensuring that material environmental matters brought to the
attention of the Board of Directors are addressed by the
Executive in a satisfactory manner; and
Ensuring that the Executive keeps the Board of Directors
apprised of applicable and pending legal requirements and the
standards of the telecommunications industry and those of
other industries that deal with similar environmental risks.
The annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review
and individual reports of material incidents enable the Board to
monitor the implementation of the Environmental Policy and
compliance with the Policy and the EMS.
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Environmental Management System
(ii)
Executive/Senior Management
MTS Allstream’s Executive and Senior Management are
responsible to be aware of MTS Allstream’s Environmental Policy
and to ensure that it is properly implemented and communicated
to all MTS Allstream employees. Designated Executive/Senior
Managers are held accountable for operational compliance with
the Environmental Policy and to ensure that applicable procedures
and training are properly implemented. Delegation of
responsibility for the implementation of the EMS is appropriate,
provided that the designated Executive/Senior Managers are held
accountable for the operational compliance with the EMS.
Executive/Senior Managers will in turn delegate the responsibility
for communication of the EMS within each MTS Allstream group
of employees to operational managers. Executive/Senior
Managers will direct operational managers to identify those areas
where there are recognized environmental risks to ensure that
employees are especially familiar with the contents of the EMS
and the need for compliance.
(iii)
Other Employees
It is the responsibility of all employees at MTS Allstream to be
aware of and comply with the Environmental Policy and the EMS,
and to comply with all instructions and training with respect to
environmental management procedures.
The EMS is implemented through MTS Allstream’s Environment
Officer. The Environment Officer is responsible and accountable
for organizational implementation of the EMS. This position is a
full time position and reports to the designated Executive or Senior
Manager on a regular basis as to the status and adequacy of the
EMS, coordinates and conducts the annual Environmental
Management & Compliance Review and reports material
environmental incidents or issues to Executive and Senior
Managers. This position also makes recommendations regarding
training.
(c)
Environmental Compliance and Management Training
MTS Allstream’s compliance and management training is the
responsibility of MTS Allstream’s Environment Officer.
Employees whose work may create an impact upon the environment or
who perform work governed by environmental legislation are provided
with appropriate training, as recommended by MTS Allstream’s
Environment Officer.
Training modules are developed by or through MTS Allstream’s
Environment Officer for all environmental procedures. These training
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modules make employees aware of their roles and responsibilities in
achieving conformance with the environmental policies and procedures,
including emergency preparedness. Documentation of training is
consistent with other documented health and safety training.
Three levels of training are implemented to educate and track employee
awareness of environmental issues.
•
•
•
(d)
General awareness
Knowledge of the EMS manual, including spill and reporting
procedures.
Operational
Knowledge of the EMS manual, spill and reporting procedures, forms
and procedures specific to operations.
Critical
Knowledge of the EMS manual, spill and reporting procedures, forms
and procedures specific to operations, including spill clean-up
operations, repair procedures and government reporting.
Environmental Targets and Objectives
Consistent with effective environmental management and the
Environmental Policy, MTS Allstream sets environmental targets which
are consistent with the principles of sustainable development, the
Environmental Policy and this EMS.
These targets lead to the development of objectives for environmental
performance, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Regulatory compliance;
Environmental protection and impact reduction;
Pollution prevention and waste reduction;
Emergency preparedness;
Work procedures and practices updates; and
Continuous improvement
The setting and ultimate achievement of environmental targets and
objectives ensures regulatory compliance and effective environmental
management as MTS Allstream responds to new environmental
legislation and standards.
The Environment Officer assists in setting and reviewing environmental
targets and objectives. Environmental targets and objectives are reported
in an annual report (called the MTS Allstream Green Report) available to
the public and shareholders.
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Environmental Management System
(e)
Implementation of Sustainable Practices
(i)
Conservation
Conservation is a key element of the EMS. Conservation
strategies and successes are reported in the annual MTS
Allstream Green Report.
Initiatives for environmental conservation within MTS Allstream
include:
•
•
•
•
•
(ii)
Energy consumption;
Water usage;
Vehicle and fuel dependence;
Appropriate purchasing practices; and
Waste reduction
Recycling
Many initiatives for recycling are active within MTS Allstream.
These initiatives are tracked, evaluated and reported in the annual
MTS Allstream Green Report.
Initiatives for environmental recycling within MTS Allstream
include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Paper;
Cardboard;
Wire;
Nickel cadmium batteries;
Automotive fluids
Metal; and
Printer cartridges
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Environmental Management System
3.
CHECKING AND CORRECTION – INTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Communication within MTS Allstream is required in order to make senior managers of
MTS Allstream, its Executive and Board of Directors aware of environmental
performance. MTS Allstream’s internal environmental reporting is required to include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Environmental achievements;
Specific examples of non-compliance and deficiencies and corrective actions
taken;
Strategies or situations for corrective actions;
Monitoring and measurement of the corrective actions;
Special reports to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on environmental
matters/issues affecting MTS Allstream whenever a decision is required from
those management levels;
Special reports to the Executive and to the Board of Directors on material
environmental incidents and corrective actions taken, as well as
recommendations and communication processes to eliminate repeat incidents;
and
Dissemination of environmental reports and recommendations to all affected
managers and employees.
a) Annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review
Once per year, MTS Allstream’s Environment Officer oversees the
Environmental Management & Compliance Review of MTS Allstream sites,
premises, procedures, communication, training and the EMS itself.
The resulting Annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review
Report is prepared and forwarded to the Executive Committee, Audit
Committee and Board of Directors during the first quarter of the next ensuing
year. This report documents the findings and recommendations of the
Annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review including the
results of the annual audit against mandatory compliance items as set out in
MTS Allstream’s Environmental Matrix. This report provides a structured and
prioritized snapshot of compliance with environmental legislation, regulations
and applicable standards, and sets out the associated corrective actions
taken by MTS Allstream. It establishes whether MTS Allstream is complying
with the Environmental Policy and the requirements of the EMS.
b) Quarterly and Monthly Environmental Reports
Quarterly reports on environmental matters and performance are provided to
the Executive and Audit Committee. A similar monthly report is provided to
divisional senior management on a monthly basis. These reports address:
•
•
•
•
Government reporting;
Environmental success stories;
Incidents and spill releases; and
Environmental initiatives, targets and objectives.
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Environmental Management System
(c)
MTS Allstream Green Report
A Green Report will be prepared annually. This report is prepared to
highlight MTS Allstream’s initiatives and achievements in a format
suitable for distribution to the public, customers and shareholders.
This public document covers discretionary sustainable development or
“green” efforts by MTS Allstream. This report demonstrates MTS
Allstream’s commitment to the environment and the principles of
sustainable development including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Balance and integration of environmental and economic decisions;
Shared responsibility;
Prevention;
Conservation;
Waste minimization; and
Technological innovation
The Green Report is distributed to the Executive Committee for
information before it is made available to the public, customers or
shareholders.
(d)
Incident Reporting
All environmental incidents which require reporting to federal or provincial
regulatory bodies are reported to impacted divisional Senior and
Executive Management as detailed in the Emergency Response
Procedures.
(d)
Document Control
Municipal By-law Permits
•
Land drainage discharge or other required permits are applied for and
retained by the Environment Officer
Internal Environment Reports
•
The Environment Officer retains all internal environment reports
addressed to divisional senior management, the Executive, the Audit
Committee and the Board of Directors.
External Reports
•
The MTS Allstream Green Report is posted on the corporate web site
available to the public, customers and shareholders.
Environment Permits
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Environmental Management System
•
•
•
•
For new construction, modification, decommissioning and upgrades of
fuel storage tanks, the MTS Allstream Property Services group is
responsible for application and retention of permits and construction
records.
For new service installations on crown property, the regional
engineering groups are responsible to make applications for
appropriate permits and retain those permits for the duration of the
project.
For installations in National Parks, the regional engineering group is
responsible for completing the procedures for environmental
assessment required and documented in the Environmental
Compliance Procedures.
The Environment Officer is responsible for the application,
maintenance and retention of pesticide records and preparation of an
annual report to provincial conservation agencies where required.
Licenses
•
•
•
•
The Environment Officer is responsible for monthly inspection reports
for the PCB storage facilities maintained by MTS Allstream. As
required by federal and provincial environment regulations, reports
are forwarded to Environment Canada and provincial regulatory
bodies. The Environment Officer retains all related records and
reports.
Consistent with transportation of dangerous goods regulations, sites
where hazardous materials are generated require a disposal option.
The Environment Officer classifies and makes application to provincial
environment agencies for the appropriate Hazardous Material
Generator License where required. Required licenses, transportation
manifests and disposal documentation are retained with the
Environment Officer.
Consistent with transportation of dangerous goods regulations,
automotive waste oils and lubricants generated at MTS Allstream’s
facilities are the responsibility of the Corporate Services’ automotive
group. Where required, the automotive group is responsible for
contracting a certified waste handler to remove and dispose of such
oils and lubricants and to maintain the transfer manifests for the
period of time required by regulations .
Consistent with transportation of dangerous goods regulations, waste
oils, lubricants and hazardous materials generated from operations by
MTS Allstream’s Corporate Services (Investment Recovery, Property
Services), Network Services, Network Operations, Customer
Operations and Service Delivery are coordinated by the Environment
Officer. The Environment Officer classifies and makes application to
provincial conservation agencies for hazardous material generator
licenses where required. The licenses, transportation manifests and
disposal documentation are retained by the Environment Officer.
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Environmental Management System
Emergency Reporting
•
•
MTS Allstream’s Emergency Response Procedures stipulate that the
quantity of the chemical released to the environment, which
constitutes a reportable spill or release, is to be documented. When
quantities of the product exceed the reportable quantity, a report to
environment agencies may be required and is submitted by MTS
Allstream’s Environment Officer. The Environment Officer is
responsible for providing internal reports and advising environment
agencies on the clean-up progress if required. The Environment
Officer retains such reports.
For chemical releases of freon and halon, MTS Allstream’s Corporate
Services (Property Services) is responsible for documentation and
reporting to ozone protection agencies where required. All records,
licenses and documentation are retained by Corporate Services and
records of releases are forwarded to the Environment Officer for
inclusion in the quarterly and monthly reports to divisional senior
management, the Executive or the Audit Committee.
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Environmental Management System
4.
MANAGEMENT REVIEW AND ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEWS
The annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review is intended to determine
compliance with applicable environmental laws, regulations, licences, approvals and
registrations, applicable non-regulatory standards and with the EMS. Information on the
results of the review is provided to relevant divisional senior management, the
Executive, Audit Committee and Board of Directors through the Annual Environmental
Management & Compliance Review Report.
(a)
Environmental Advisory Committee
This committee is comprised of senior or middle managers representing
appropriate operational groups within MTS Allstream, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Law
Human Resources
Corporate Services
Network Operations
Network Planning and Engineering or Network Assurance
Corporate Insurance
Audit
The responsibilities of this committee include:
•
•
•
•
(b)
Maintaining accountability for operational compliance to the MTS
Allstream Environmental Policy and procedures relating to
applicable environmental law;
Acting in an advisory role to the Environmental Review Team (see
below) for the development and maintenance of the
Environmental Procedures;
Assisting in the identification of areas of environmental risk that
have not previously been identified; and
Reviewing and endorsing the recommendations and findings of
the Environmental Review Team
Environmental Review Team
MTS Allstream’s Environmental Review Team is comprised of
representatives from diverse operations within MTS Allstream who are
directly involved in environmental matters. This typically includes:
•
•
•
Corporate Services
Network Planning and Engineering, Network Assurance, Network
Operations, Customer Operations and/or Service Delivery
Human Resources
Led by the Environment Officer, the team determines the scope of the
annual Environmental Management and Compliance Review as well as
incident specific reviews, based on the environmental importance of the
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activity or operation concerned. The team reports on the scope of the
annual Environmental Management and Compliance Review to the
Environmental Advisory Committee, which then approves or modifies the
scope as it sees necessary. Overall, the Environmental Advisory
Committee approves the scope of the annual review and the
Environmental Review Team completes the review. Following the
completion of the annual review, the Environmental Review Team then
reports the results to the Environmental Advisory Committee in the form
of the annual Environmental Management & Compliance Review Report.
The Environmental Management & Compliance Review Report is
approved by the Environmental Advisory Committee.
The Environmental Review Team monitors procedures for compliance
with environmental laws, regulations, standards, licences, approvals and
registrations and with the EMS.
The Environmental Review Team evaluates on an ongoing basis the
effectiveness of steps taken by MTS Allstream to achieve the goals set
out in the Environmental Policy.
In addition, the duties of Environmental Review Team include:
•
•
•
•
Monitoring the EMS and procedures;
Identifying environmental risks and collaborating with operational
groups to minimize risk;
Updating the EMS and procedures to respond to new laws,
regulations and standards as well as new processes, products or
services in MTS operational groups; and,
Corporate reporting
The following illustrates the flow of the elements of MTS’s EMS, in the context of these
committees/teams.
Environmental Policy
Environmental Review Team
Management Review
Environmental Advisory Committee
Environmental Review Team
Planning
Environmental Advisory Committee
Environmental Review Team
Checking and Correction
Environmental Review Team
Implementation
Environmental Advisory Committee
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Environmental Management System
PART IV
APPLICABLE ENVIRONMENTAL LAW
There are numerous federal, provincial and municipal environmental laws and
regulations which are applicable to MTS Allstream, and with which compliance is
mandatory as the company carries out its day-to-day business. The most relevant laws
and regulations address the following:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Environmental protection including control of toxic substances
Fisheries protection
Hazardous products
Handling and transportation of dangerous good
Above ground and underground fuel storage systems
Ozone depleting substances
Public health
Waste reduction and prevention
Contaminated sites remediation
Land drainage discharge
Unnecessary and harmful noise
On behalf of MTS Allstream, the Environmental Officer and Environmental Review Team
monitor and identify new and emerging laws, regulations and standards. This ensures
that the EMS and associated operational guides remain current, and that impacted
business units/employees receive required communication and training. This continuous
identification of laws, regulations and standards is achieved through established
practices, including:
•
•
•
•
Relationships and regular dialogue with environmental regulators
Participating in industry and environmental associations
Monitoring government legislative registries and communication vehicles
Participating in government advisory groups and roundtables
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Environmental Management System
PART V
CONCLUSION
As a guide for environmental compliance and management, the EMS helps MTS
Allstream meet or exceed environmental regulatory requirements. The EMS also plays
an important role in creating a culture of environmental innovation and responsibility.
The MTS Allstream EMS needs to continually evolve in order to remain aligned with the
corporate structure, the fast-paced changes in the telecommunications industry, and
evolving environmental requirements and challenges. This continues to be well served
by regular reviews of the EMS and implementation of the recommendations flowing from
the reviews.
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Environmental Management System
APPENDIX “A”
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
MTS Allstream needs to establish, implement and maintain procedures to identify
potential emergency situations and how to attend to them as part of the EMS. Consistent
with this standard, emergency procedures are included as part of the EMS.
Environment Spills and Emergency Incidents
Any release of a regulated chemical to the air, onto the soil, or into water must be
reported. Chemical products must be handled in a manner to reduce or eliminate the
chance of an accidental release to the environment. The primary objective is to ensure
personal safety and minimize the spread of the chemical.
Applicable Laws
• Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act
• Environmental Accident Reporting Regulation
MTS Allstream References
Environmental Procedures:
1. ENP 101, ENP 102, ENP 103, ENP 104, ENP 105, ENP 106, ENP 110, ENP
111, ENP 114, ENP 118, ENP 120, ENP 121, ENP 122.
Responsibilities
It is the responsibility of supervisory or people managers to ensure that employees
handle all chemicals in a safe manner. Through WHMIS training, the manager can
identify employees who require additional training in environmental response. It is the
responsibility of the employee to report any activity or problem with equipment which
may contaminate the environment to their immediate supervisor.
Drums, tanks and containers containing chemicals must be labeled and stored in an
area where the condition of the drums can be inspected regularly. The MTS Allstream
Environment Officer and Environmental Health and Safety Specialist is responsible for
providing chemical awareness training (WHMIS) for all employees. It is the
responsibility of supervisory managers to identify training needs.
Emergency Response
The following immediate action should be taken:
• Ensure personal safety
• Contain spill to as small an area as possible
• Block sewers and drains
• Eliminate sources of ignition
• If a fire is present evacuate and call the local Fire Department.
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Environmental Management System
Relevant Chemicals
Listed below are the chemicals used at MTS Allstream which are most likely to cause an
environment incident. Releases greater then the listed quantities must be reported to
the appropriate government body.
Class/Division
Product Name
Class 2
Non Flammable Gas
Including:
• Freon
• Halon
• Nitrogen
• Carbon
Dioxide
Including
• Propane
• Acetylene
Class 2
Flammable Gas
Class 3
Flammable Liquids
Class 8
Corrosive materials
Class 9
Environmental
Classification
Including
• Gasoline
• Diesel
Fuel
• Hydraulic
Oil
Including
• Battery
Acids and
gel cells
Asbestos/PCB
Transportation of
Dangerous Goods
Any quantity that could
pose a danger to public
safety or any sustained
release of 10 minutes
or more
Manitoba Limit
Any quantity that could
pose a danger to public
safety or any sustained
release of 10 minutes
or more
Greater than 200L
Any release from a
container with a
capacity of more than
100L
Greater than 100L
Greater than 5kg or 5L
Greater than 5kg or 5L
Greater then 5kg or 5L
Greater than 500g of
PCB
Any release from a
container with a
capacity of more than
100L
Note: Manitoba Conservation has implemented slightly different reporting quantities for
some classes of Dangerous Goods. If in doubt, call your MTS Allstream Environmental
Department for reporting procedures.
Canadian Emergency Response Reporting Requirements
When dangerous goods are spilled in the environment or leaked in a company vehicle or
pose a health and safety risk to the public, the driver must immediately notify:
•
•
•
The local police and/or other local authority first (see Emergency Contact
Numbers) and then;
His/her employer
The consignor of the dangerous goods and the owner or lessee of the vehicle if
applicable
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Environmental Management System
Environmental Reporting information Requirements
• The location and time of the incident;
• The name and telephone number of the person reporting the incident;
• A brief description of the circumstances and status at the time of the report;
• The identity and quantity of the contaminants;
• The name of the owner of the contaminants;
• The action that the person making the report has taken or intends to take with
respect to the incident; and
• Other relevant information required by the person to whom the report is made.
Emergency Contacts
ALBERTA
BRITISH COLUMBIA
800-272-9600 and local police
800-663-3546 and local police
MANITOBA
NEW BRUNSWICK
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
NORTH WEST TERRITORIES
NOVA SCOTIA
ONTARIO
NUNAVUT
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
QUEBEC
SASKATCHEWAN
YUKON
204-945-4888 and local police
800-565-1633 or local police
709-772-2083 and local police
867-920-8130
800-565-1633 or 902-426-6030 or local police
Local police
867-920-8130 and local police
800-565-1633 or local police
Local police
800-667-7525 or local police
867-667-7244
The Transport Dangerous Goods Directorate of Transport Canada operates CANUTEC
(Canadian Transport Emergency Centre). CANUTEC provides a national bilingual
advisory service and is staffed by professional chemists experienced and trained in
interpreting technical information and providing emergency response advise. In an
emergency, CANUTEC may be called collect at 613-996-6666 (24 hours). In a nonemergency situation, the 24 hour information line is 613-992-4624.
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Environmental Management System
MTS Allstream Reporting Requirements
Enterprise Solutions
Reporting Procedure:
1. Immediate supervisor/field
operations manager to report the
incident to:
2. Provincial Environment Contact
3. Property Services/Access
Management
4. Environmental Health and Safety
5. Human Resources Sr. Manager
Consumer Markets
Reporting Procedure:
1. Immediate Supervisor
2. Environment Officer
3. Manitoba Conservation
4. Property Services
5. WOC
941-6521
944-4888
941-4440
257-2511
In the case of a spill or leak, where quantities require Provincial or Federal reporting,
The Environment Officer or delegate will prepare a “Fact Sheet” on the spill, clean up,
and actions taken.
Enterprise Solutions
Internal Reporting Procedure:
A report must be prepared on the spill,
clean up and actions taken. This report is
to be compiled and updated within 48
hours and distributed by internal electronic
mail to the following people or
departments. The departments below will
also be notified upon clean up and closure
of the spill / leak report.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Immediate supervisor of the
employee reporting the spill
Environmental H&S Specialist
Finance / Risk Management/
Corporate Communications
Legal Department
Human Resources
Property Services
Network Engineering
Customer Operations (Director &
VP)
Consumer Markets
Internal Reporting Procedure:
The Fact Sheet is to be compiled and
updated within 48 hours and distributed by
internal electronic mail to:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
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Immediate supervisor of the
employee reporting the spill
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Human Resources Officer
Director Property Services
Corporate Emergency Planning
Manager
Law Department
Corporate Communications
VP Operations Consumer Markets
Manager Corporate Insurance
Environmental Management System
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Material Safety Data Sheets are retained for all identified chemicals used at MTS
Allstream. In the case of a spill or release, relevantl information can be obtained directly
from the OPS web site.
Enterprise Solutions
The latest version of the MSDS can be
found on mysource at
• http://mysource/content/1,,15812656-10424,00.html
• National Reporting Centre (NOC)
257-2507
or you can email any questions to
Environment, Health &
Safety/Environnement, Santé et Sécurité.
Consumer Markets
The latest version of the MSDS can be
found on the OBSWEb at
• http://opsweb/safety/
Or
• iNFOZONE> Inside MTS>
Wellness> Workplace Hazardous
Material Information System
• Manitoba Reporting Centre (WOC)
257-2511
or you can email any questions to the
Manager Environment Programs
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