Renovating a space—whether it’s your home or business—can be a thrilling journey, offering the chance to create an environment uniquely suited to your vision. But in the excitement, it’s all too easy to overlook hidden hazards that could affect your health and the well-being of those around you. I personally remember, in my younger years, not worrying about exposure to certain products and feeling invincible. The reality, though, is that harm may not be immediately visible; years later, the long-term effects can appear. Currently, my biggest issue is a reduction in hearing, but I’ve personally known people greatly affected by long-term lung issues and, in some cases, even death resulting from complications due to exposure. I’m sure many of you have your own stories or know of someone who has experienced this. It’s a serious matter.

While increased access to information has helped protect more people from harm, there is still a long way to go, and the importance of safety should not be ignored. In Canada, building materials in older structures often contain toxins that, when disturbed, pose serious health risks. That’s why following healthy renovation practices is crucial. In this guide, I’ll discuss key hazards to watch out for, the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE), and proper disposal practices to keep your renovation safe and responsible.

Why Healthy Renovation Practices Matter for Homes and Businesses

The renovation process can expose you to numerous hidden hazards, especially in older buildings. Chemicals and toxic materials from decades ago can still lurk beneath surfaces and in structural materials. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS), 60% of work-related illnesses in the construction industry are linked to respiratory issues, often caused by prolonged exposure to hazardous materials. For businesses, a safe renovation approach isn’t just about the health of employees and clients—it’s also about meeting health and safety standards to avoid legal risks.

Taking steps to identify and safely remove toxic materials not only protects your health but also ensures a more sustainable and legally compliant renovation.

Common Toxic Materials In Older Homes and Buildings

Here’s a rundown of toxic materials you might encounter and what to do if you find them:

Asbestos

Asbestos was widely used for its insulation and fire-resistant properties and can be found in older insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and drywall. Disturbing asbestos releases tiny fibers that, if inhaled, can lead to serious lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The Canadian Cancer Society notes that asbestos exposure is the leading cause of workplace death in home/building renovations and general construction.

Action: ALWAYS have your house or business tested. Testing is inexpensive and easily accessible. If asbestos is suspected, consult a certified asbestos abatement professional. In Canada, it is illegal to remove asbestos without proper training and permits, as it requires specialized containment and removal techniques.

Lead-Based Paint

Lead-based paint is commonly found in homes and businesses with interiors painted before 1960 and in exterior paint before 1990. Lead paint poses significant health risks, especially for young children and pregnant women.

Next Steps: Have a professional test for lead paint. If present, a certified contractor can safely remove or encapsulate the paint according to Canadian guidelines. The professional should ALWAYS wear PPE when dealing with lead, and all furniture and household items should be removed from the location to avoid contamination.

Mould

Mould grows in moist, dark areas and often goes unnoticed until renovation starts. It’s commonly found in basements, attics, and bathrooms and poses respiratory risks, especially for those with asthma or weakened immune systems. According to Health Canada, one in three Canadian homes has detectable levels of mould, which has been linked to increased asthma rates in affected populations.

What to look for: Musty smells, visible growth, or water stains. If mould is present, particularly in large areas, hire a professional remediation specialist to prevent spore spread.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are chemicals emitted from certain paints, varnishes, adhesives, and cleaning products. These gases can cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory irritation, particularly in enclosed spaces. Environment and Climate Change Canada reports that VOCs contribute to poor indoor air quality, which affects over 15% of Canadians.

Solution: Choose low-VOC or VOC-free products and ensure proper ventilation when using products that emit VOCs. For businesses, it’s important to create a plan for employees to avoid exposure, such as renovating in off-hours and maintaining air circulation.

Mercury and PCBs

Mercury can be found in older thermostats, light fixtures, and some electrical devices. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were used in certain electrical equipment and building materials. Both are hazardous to health and the environment, with risks of nervous system damage, kidney issues, and cancer.

Next Steps: Handle any mercury-containing items carefully and consult your local hazardous waste facility for disposal. PCB-containing materials require removal by a licensed professional.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): A Must for Renovations

PPE is your first defense against dust, toxins, and airborne chemicals. Yes, they can be uncomfortable, but whether you’re renovating a home or a business, proper protection is essential. Studies from the CCOHS indicate that consistent PPE use reduces workplace injuries by 60%, underscoring its importance in any renovation setting. These are common PPE required for residential and small commercial renovations:

Respirators: Use an air-purifying respirator rated for the specific hazard (such as asbestos or lead particles).
Eye and Skin Protection: Safety goggles, gloves, and coveralls prevent direct contact with hazardous materials and help avoid skin absorption.
Ventilation: Good ventilation is crucial, especially when working with VOC-emitting materials. Businesses can set up temporary ventilation systems and designate renovation areas to limit employee exposure.
Protective Ear and Footwear: High noise levels from power tools and machinery are common during renovations, potentially leading to hearing loss over time. Wearing ear protection, like earmuffs or earplugs, can significantly reduce this risk. Additionally, steel-toed boots or other protective footwear provide essential protection against heavy objects, sharp debris, and slippery surfaces, reducing the risk of foot injuries.

Disposal Considerations:

Safe disposal of toxic materials is a critical part of a healthy renovation, protecting both people and the environment. In Canada, there are specific guidelines for handling hazardous waste:

Residential Disposal: Many Canadian municipalities have hazardous waste disposal programs with drop-off locations for items like paint, electronics, and asbestos. According to a survey by Statistics Canada, only 40% of Canadians currently dispose of hazardous waste properly, making it essential to increase awareness and access to safe disposal.
Hire Licensed Disposal Services: For both homes and businesses, hiring a licensed disposal service is often the best option for toxic materials. These services are equipped to handle substances like lead, asbestos, and mercury safely.

Whether you’re refreshing your home or revamping your business, following healthy renovation practices protects you, your family, employees, and customers. Don’t skip steps with toxic materials, and always consult professionals for materials that may pose health risks. Renovations should bring you peace of mind and joy, and that starts with addressing the hidden aspects that can affect your long-term health. By following these guidelines and Canadian standards, you’ll not only create a beautiful space but a safe, responsible one for everyone who steps inside.

Essential Safety Guidelines for Healthy Home and Business Renovations