Commercial operations such as those in manufacturing facilities, oil and gas production, and processing plants each have unique environments and challenges. These facilities produce a considerable amount of dust and other particulates from operations such as metal fabrication, food and beverage production, wood product manufacturing, mining, and other commercial activities.
Canadian Commercial Operations Require Specialized Air Filtration Solutions Adapted to Regional Challenges
Canadian commercial operations require specialized air filtration solutions that take into account both activity-specific and region-specific considerations. For example, metal, chemical & petrochemical, mining & smelting, and paper & wood processing centres produce significant amounts of dust, mists, and fumes. Also, pharmaceutical facilities produce hazardous airbourne particles that must be contained and collected to ensure employee safety, HVAC and other equipment protection, and environmental protection. Coastal areas are subject to high levels of humidity and salt, which can impact operations and require more frequent air filter changeouts.
British Columbia suffers the most from wildfire particulate challenges to commercial operations, followed by Alberta, the Northwest territories, Saskatchewan, and Northwestern Ontario. Particulates from wildfires can harm the health of employees in commercial operations, disrupt operations and supply chains, and cause equipment damage. The particulates can contaminate food processing facilities, pharmaceutical products, and high-tech products such as semiconductors, compromising safety and leading to recalls or production downtime. All of this can lead to significant financial losses.
The Diverse Canadian Commercial Landscape from Oil & Gas to Manufacturing
Western Canada’s commercial operations, especially in cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, and Regina, require comprehensive air filtration solutions to deal with resource-based, industry-produced particulates, VOCs and other hazardous gases. A growing concern is difficulty capturing contaminants in population-dense urban areas.
Understanding Canadian Commercial Operations Air Quality Challenges
Canadian Oil & Gas, Agriculture, and Mining Operations
Oil and gas are the dominant industries in Western Canadian provinces Alberta and Saskatchewan, while on the East Coast, Newfoundland and Labrador have established a large offshore oil and gas industry.
Alberta’s economy is overwhelmingly dependent on fossil fuel extraction and production, along with mining and quarrying.
Saskatchewan is the second-largest oil and gas producer in Canada. Growth in the industry depends on heavy oil production. It significantly contributes to the province’s GDP: Industrial activities such as mining, quarrying and the oil and gas sector contribute a substantial 22% of Saskatchewan’s GDP.Saskatchewan also depends on potash and uranium mining. –Government of Saskatchewan
Manitoba depends on its agriculture, food processing, transportation-related manufacturing such as aerospace and heavy-duty ground vehicles, bus manufacturing and bus parts, and mining.It also produces trailers for semi-trucks, fire trucks, and motor homes. Other industrial and commercial activity includes metals production, manufacturing electronics equipment for transportation, and rubber and plastics processing.
British Columbia relies on the tech sector (e.g., data centres) and construction to support its growing economy, booming real estate sector, and mining and forestry industries.
Air Filtration Requirements for Upstream Operations (Drilling, Extraction)
Upstream activities mostly take place in Western Canada, and there are offshore upstream activities in Newfoundland and Labrador. This includes oil production from the oil sands, onshore and offshore oil production and natural gas production, as well as fuels processing.
Upstream oil and gas operations such as drilling and extraction of fossil fuels in Canada can generate many harmful gases and air pollutants such as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Particulate Matter (PM2.5, PM1), Methane (CH4), Sulphur Oxides (SOx), Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S).
Downstream Processing (Refineries, Petrochemical Plants) and Contamination Control
Natural Resources Canada describes downstream activities as those that follow extraction, transforming and refining crude oil into petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and petrochemicals. Natural Resources Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada aim to reduce the environmental impact of downstream activities, with a primary goal of decarbonizing industrial processes.
Processing crude oil and natural gas into finished products releases some of the same pollutants that are produced in upstream operations, with the addition of Carbon Monoxide (CO) and benzene.
Regulatory Compliance Specific to Canadian Energy Sector Operations
The oil and gas sector in Canada, which includes upstream drilling and extraction activities, as well as downstream activities such as refining, must contend with a challenging environment characterized by harsh conditions and stringent regulations. The Canadian government, due to public pressure, has adopted new regulations designed to reduce the environmental impacts of activities such as oil extraction and processing from Alberta’s tar sands. The main goals are to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) and methane emissions. The effectiveness of the regulations, has been limited due to inconsistencies in government incentives and low industry adoption levels.
British Columbia Industrial Operations
Forestry and Pulp Mill Air Quality Management
BC’s forestry and pulp mill sectors often struggle with air quality challenges. Not only does the industry have to deal with its concentrated emissions of PM2.5 and PM1, sulphur compounds, and VOCs, among other emissions, but it also has to deal with emissions from wildfires and abandoned mills that create problems due to their release of hazardous wastes like dioxins.
Mining Operations Air Filtration Requirements in BC’s Mountainous Regions
Mining operations in BC’s mountainous areas have to mitigate dust that contains contaminants such as selenium and heavy metals. Equipment emissions also cause problems. Contaminants have trouble dispersing in mountainous regions, and they must be better captured at the source.
BC’s mining sector must adhere to the Environmental Management Act (EMA) and the Health, Safety and Reclamation Code for Mines in BC. The industry must manage dust, equipment exhaust, and monitor and report contaminant releases.
Port and Shipping Facility Air Quality Challenges in the Vancouver Area
Ports and shipping facilities produce major pollutants such as PM2.5 and PM1, sulphur oxides (SOx), black carbon, and VOCs. Outdated diesel trucks and ships produce most of these emissions.
The health impacts of these pollutants include heart disease, stroke, and respiratory problems, especially for people who are more susceptible or those with preexisting health problems and living near ports.
Wildfire Impact on Commercial Operations Across BC and Other Provinces
Wildfires are having an increasingly significant impact on commercial operations, ranging from operational disruptions and closures to infrastructure and property damage, to supply chain interruptions that impact the economy greatly. Prolonged poor air quality, health problems, and decreased tourism can also be casualties of wildfires.
Maritime Climate Considerations for Equipment Protection
Coastal climates can be very challenging for commercial operations in cities such as Victoria and around the Greater Vancouver Area. High humidity and moisture, as well as salt from the ocean, can cause corrosion and premature degradation of commercial and industrial equipment. Extreme weather caused by climate change can pose harm to equipment and operations. A high-quality air filtration and management system is required for maritime operations.
Regional Commercial Production and Manufacturing in Canada
Food Processing Operations Across the Prairies
Food production and food processing are the largest manufacturing sectors in the Prairies. It is a large growth sector within the Canadian economy. Proper air filtration is crucial in food production and food processing to prevent the spread of airbourne microorganisms such as Listeria and Salmonella.
High-quality Air Filtration in the Food and Beverage Industries is Key For:
- Contamination control and product quality: preventing bacteria, mould, pollen, dust, and particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5, PM1) from entering production facilities and infiltrating food products. This can cause spoilage, serious health problems, recalls, and liability. Airborne contaminants can affect the quality of food and reduce shelf life.
- Allergen control: Cross-contamination can occur if effective air filtration is not implemented.
- Employee productivity and health: Studies have repeatedly shown that clean air improves staff health, productivity, and engagement, and reduces employee sick days.
- Compliance: High-quality air filtration leads to better regulatory compliance with CFIA and other agencies, as well as reduced chances of shutdowns and downtime.
Panel filters, bag filters, compact filters, and activated-carbon filters are recommended for these facilities. HEPA and ULPA filters are recommended for cleanrooms.
Automotive Manufacturing in Ontario
Ontario’s automotive industry is not only a huge contributor to Ontario’s economy, but it is also a big part of the Canadian economy as a whole. In 2023, Ontario accounted for 81.7% of Canadian employment in the motor vehicle, body, trailer, and parts manufacturing sector MVBTP. Employment in this sector was 144,000 people in 2023. –Ontario.ca
Why is Clean Air Important for the MVBTP Industries in Canada?
High-quality air filtration protects products and processes. Air filters remove dust, mist, and dangerous fumes generated in production processes such as painting and welding. Removing contaminants ensures that parts and products will not be compromised. It also leads to fewer line stoppages for impurities and less production downtime by protecting sensitive electronic equipment and production machinery, as well as reducing corrosion and wear and tear of machinery and HVAC equipment. Finally, premium air filters lead to better energy efficiency and cost savings from longer lifespans and less frequent changeouts.
Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Operations Requiring Specialized Contamination Control
Pharmaceutical and biotech operations require specialized contamination control for regulatory compliance in cleanroom environments. Health Canada, ISO 14644, and industry best practices call for premium HEPA and ULPA filters that are individually tested and certified to protect and prevent contamination of pharmaceutical and biotech products and processes. Life-saving drugs, vaccines, and biotech products are particularly susceptible to particulates, airbourne viruses, and bacteria. Sterility ensures quality in the aseptic processes and avoids product recalls.
Premium air filters in pharma and biotech spaces lead to longer lifespans, lower operational costs, and less energy usage.
Chemical Processing Facilities Throughout Industrial Corridors
Chemical processing facilities involve plastics, fertilizers, fuels, and other products. Industrial corridors include Alberta’s industrial heartland, Northeast of Edmonton, with more than 40 chemical and petrochemical processing facilities. Quebec, British Columbia and other provinces also have significant chemical processing facilities.
Proper air filtration in chemical processing facilities protects the environment, preserves equipment function and prevents corrosion. It also protects processes to ensure proper chemical reactions. Finally, proper filtration controls combustibles or flammable vapours to lessen explosion risks.
Cold Climate Operational Challenges Affecting Air Filtration Performance
In Canada’s cold climate areas, the cold often presents big challenges to air filtration performance. Condensation and freezing are problems when cold outside air meets heated air indoors. This can lead to filter clogging, a higher average pressure drop, and reduced airflow, which can damage filter media and hardware such as seals, leading to air bypass and, in turn, poor air quality.
Regulatory Framework and Canadian Standards for Commercial Operations
Health Canada Requirements for Industrial Air Quality in Commercial Operations
While Canada has regulations for some commercial and industrial operations, such as for chemical processing and food processing, along with provincial and territorial industry-specific standards, Health Canada mostly provides guidelines and advice as opposed to direct involvement in other commercial and industrial facilities. Health Canada provides information on the risks of exposure to high levels of CO2, VOCs, and PM2.5. Provincial and territorial governments require employers to provide a safe working environment, and this includes adequate air quality.
Provincial and Territorial Occupational Health and Safety Standards Across Different Regions
Provincial and territorial governments have occupational health and safety legislation that covers air quality. Commercial and industrial facilities must control airbourne contaminants and ensure that staff are not exposed to excessive amounts of pollutants by providing adequate air filtration.
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) Regulations Affecting Commercial Operations
ECCC covers outdoor ambient air quality and industrial emissions. This includes the CAAQS (Canadian Ambient Air Quality Standards), which sets objectives for pollutants such as SO2, NO2, PM2.5, and ozone. The CEPA (Canadian Environmental Protection Act) covers certain sectors and equipment to curtail emissions of NOx, SO2, and VOCs. This includes the need for advanced air filtration. The National Pollutant Release Inventory is part of the ECCC and requires industrial and commercial facilities to report on releases of over 300 covered substances into the air, water, and land. The information is publicly accessible for reasons of transparency and accountability. Quebec has its own equivalent regulations governing commercial and industrial emissions. www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/pollution-waste-management/national-pollutant-release-inventory.html
CSA (Canadian Standards Association) Air Quality Standards for Industrial Facilities
CSA standards exist mainly for HVAC systems in healthcare facilities. For example, requiring MERV 13/13A filtration for patient care areas and HEPA filters for cleanrooms and intensive care units. CSA Z317.2 requires HEPA filters for certain areas and minimum MERV ratings in others. CSA Z8000 covers Canadian health care facilities regarding planning, design, and construction. It includes air quality. CSA often references ASHRAE standards.
ASHRAE Standards in Canadian Commercial Operations
ASHRAE Standards are guidelines created by HVAC-related engineers that focus on building comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality (IAQ) through effective air filtration and airflow. While these standards are not legally binding, they are often incorporated into building codes, which can lead to fines and legal issues for non-compliance in Canada.
Key ASHRAE Standards Affecting Commercial and Industrial Enterprises Include:
- Standard 62.1: Focuses on commercial buildings, providing guidelines on ventilation rates and improving IAQ, and is mandatory for LEED certification.
- Standard 90.1: Sets energy efficiency guidelines and aligns with ISO standards for improved sustainability.
- Standard 241-2023: Targets infection control, recommending higher ventilation rates and improved filtration, especially during pandemics. It includes the Infection Risk Management Mode (IRMM) for buildings. Airflow is a central part of 241.
ASHRAE also advocates for better energy efficiency and improved filtration to support indoor air quality and public health.
Regional Compliance Variations Across Provinces and Territories
Provincial and territorial compliance in regards to air quality standards in Canada varies greatly. Emission limits, monitoring requirements, and occupational health standards, along with their enforcement, are not standardized across the country. While provinces and territories share best practices, regional demands can affect compliance levels. For example, Ontario has its own regulations which cover air pollution and local air quality and sets detailed standards for pollution control. It is thought to have the most comprehensive regulations on air quality and emissions in Canada. Alberta has regional air quality standards to control emissions from its heavy industry and chemical production facilities.
Canadian Climate Impact on Commercial Operations: Air Filtration
Equipment Protection During Prairie Winters and Maritime Humidity
Equipment can be better protected during Prairie winters and in Maritime humidity. HVAC coils are less susceptible to moisture and corrosion when using premium air filters.
Businesses should maintain a stock of backup filters during harsh winters in case filters degrade or suddenly fail. Regular monitoring can help determine if a filter has become overloaded with dust or if it has bowed.
Coastal Salt Air Impact on Equipment in BC and Maritime Operations
Corrosion and degradation of HVAC equipment can be a problem in areas with salty air. It is best to use air filters designed to deal with such conditions. Regular monitoring for corrosion and degradation of equipment is recommended.
Prairie dust and agricultural particulates affecting commercial facilities located near farmland are another environmental concern that industries must address. Maintenance and better monitoring of equipment are recommended to deal with these harsh conditions. Filters with higher dust holding capacity are necessary.
Air Quality Challenges in the Industrial Corridor of Windsor-Sarnia
Due to the presence of heavy industries and high-traffic transportation routes, buildings in the industrial corridor require filters with higher MERV ratings to protect people and processes. These areas are prone to higher pollution levels.
Northern Operations and Extreme Weather Protection
Northern operations have to deal with extreme cold weather, and it is recommended that commercial enterprises use filters designed for low temperatures with proper construction and good moisture management. During extreme cold periods, system coils must be pre-heated to prevent ice build-up.
Energy efficiency is an important consideration since heating large volumes of outdoor air in Northern Canada requires significant energy. Air filters designed for maximum energy efficiency and the lowest average pressure drop are of great benefit for reducing operational costs.
The durability of HVAC hardware, such as fan motors and ductwork, is crucial. All HVAC equipment must be spec’d to withstand extreme cold to prevent costly repairs or additional capital costs.
Camfil Canada Solutions for Commercial Operations
Energy-Efficient Filtration for Canadian Operations
- Hi-Flo ES Bag Filters and Durafil ES Box Filters (MERV 13/13A-15/15A): Energy-saving solutions reducing HVAC load and operational costs
- Low-pressure drop technology is critical for Canadian energy efficiency requirements
- An extended service life reduces the need for frequent maintenance in remote commercial operations
- Performance optimization in extreme Canadian climate conditions
Comprehensive Contamination Control
- CityCarb/CityPleat Combination Filters: Combined particulate and molecular filtration for complex commercial operations
- Odour and VOC control is essential for food processing and chemical operations
- Simultaneous protection against multiple contaminant types
- Applications in oil & gas processing where chemical and particulate control are required
Cost-Effective Pre-Filtration Solutions
- 30/30 Dual 9 Panel Filters: Durable MERV 9/9A protection for commercial operations
- Cost savings through extended filter life in harsh Canadian environments
- Longevity benefits reducing maintenance frequency in remote operations
- Ideal for pre-filtration in multi-stage systems, protecting more expensive final filters
Supplemental Air Quality Enhancement
Check with your local Camfil air filter expert for localized air filtration system solutions for control rooms, laboratories, and quality control areas in commercial and industrial operations. Camfil can provide portable solutions for temporary operations and construction phases.
Decision-Making Framework for Canadian Commercial Operations
Property and facility managers should focus on optimizing air filtration performance. With this in mind, they should look into the cost/benefits of switching to premium air filters to maximize IAQ and reduce their total cost of ownership over the life of the filters. Seasonal needs should be considered, and air filter monitoring and replacement schedules should be established.
Purchasing managers and procurement directors should set stringent air filter vendor evaluation standards and use Camfil’s Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis to calculate ROI based on energy savings in all Canadian utility markets.
Building owners and portfolio managers can benefit from understanding the impact of energy savings on profitability, as well as integrating efficient air filtration with ESG goals and carbon emissions reduction (ESG scopes 2 and 3).
For HVAC Contractors and Engineers
HVAC contractors and engineers dealing with commercial and industrial air filtration should make themselves aware of specific ASHRAE standards required for Canadian commercial operations. Another important consideration should be prioritizing air filters that have the lowest pressure drop available in order to maximize energy savings. Finally, it is important to consider the benefits of boosting brand awareness and the availability of incentives by using LEED points and BOMA guidelines in building operations.
For Health & Safety, and Environmental Health and Safety Managers
EHSMs should educate themselves on indoor air quality (IAQ) best practices for Canadian commercial operations by becoming familiar with WELL Building Standards for commercial operations. They must also be familiar with OSHA standards in their province or territory to protect workers and protect equipment and products in commercial or industrial facilities. It is essential to document air filter changeouts and regularly monitor IAQ and adjust filtration and ventilation settings when needed.
For Sustainability and ESG Teams
ESG Scope 2 and 3: Reducing energy consumption in Scope 2 and 3 can be achieved through the use of low-pressure drop filters. Incorporating air filters that last much longer can significantly reduce air filter-related waste. For example, consider switching to filters with a lifespan of 1-5 years, rather than the standard 3-6 months, and transitioning from a 2 or 3-stage filtration system to a single-stage system. Premium filters can reduce your carbon footprint and greatly reduce filter-related waste in Canadian commercial and industrial operations.
How to Get Expert Air Filtration Help Locally
Canadian commercial and industrial operations often require unique air filtration solutions. Keeping abreast of the many regulations and standards is a daunting task. Luckily, Camfil has air filtration experts who can help you with compliance. Camfil also has expertise in addressing regional challenges and operational needs. Whether you seek to reduce hazardous gas emissions or improve the IAQ in your workplace, Camfil can help. To find local representatives, use this contact form, and someone will reach out to you. Contact form
Where Can I Buy Camfil Air Filters in Canada?
Camfil air filters are available directly or through authorized distributors across Canada.
About Camfil Canada Clean Air Solutions
For more than 60 years, Camfil has been helping people breathe cleaner air. As a leading manufacturer of premium clean air solutions, we provide commercial and industrial systems for air filtration and air pollution control that enhance worker and equipment productivity, reduce energy consumption, and benefit both human health and the environment.
Read more about Camfil Canada.
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Sources:
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC)
Government of Saskatchewan
Government of British Columbia
Government of Quebec
Government of Ontario
Government of Alberta
Government of Canada
ASHRAE
CSA
BOMA
LEED
WELL
Health Canada
Media Contact:
Phillip Ilijevski
Camfil Canada Inc.
T: 437-929-1161