OntarioACHI AGM and Mini-conference
While the mini-conference was a great success, we unfortunately did not manage to get sufficient members attending to have a quorum for the AGM to take place.
We had some fantastic speakers on the day, with areas for suppliers to the profession presenting their wares and services.
Insurance
Dwayne Vanderhout from Mac Vanderhout Insurance talked about Insurance topics ranging from Professional Insurance, including E&O, Group insurance and even tips on home insurance coverage that might be impacted by the decision to work from home. Dwayne and his team have developed a Group insurance program for OntarioACHI members. Information about this program is available online at http://www.ontarioachi.ca.
Safety: Working at heights
Alec Caldwell and Monica Olenroot, directors from the Canadian Association of Renovators and Home Services (http://carahs.org) presented on the working at heights legislation and how it affects home inspectors in our daily functions. Some interesting information about the way in which the Ministry of Labour can levy heavy penalties with no recourse for defence was extremely enlightening.
Safety: Avoid working at heights
Mark Hendley from Eyestick was present to explain how his system can support home inspectors avoid the need to climb ladders exterior of the dwelling and remain compliant with the requirements of the Standards of Practice. There was a conference offer for the Eyestick product which we have negotiated for our members as an ongoing benefit.
Ancillary Services: Mold, Asbestos and radon
EMSL provided us once again with a fantastic presentation on the processes and protocols of mold, asbestos and radon sampling. Once again, the questions were fast and furious and well answered by Sneha Panchal, biology lab manager at EMSL, Toronto.
WSIB and Bill-119
A presentation was given of the impacts and risks that Bill-119 has made to the profession and the penalties that can be expected if an inspector falls foul of the inconsistent policies of the WSIB. We also heard what OntarioACHI has done over the past 18 months to try to work with both the Ministry of Labour and the WSIB to get these policies reviewed and the lack of action so far on behalf of the Government and it's agencies.
Give-aways
A number of door prizes were won by various attendees. These prizes ranges included flashlights, inspection tools and star prizes of an Android tablet and a copy of Noticeware Reporter courtesy of Jeff Moll and his team.