Published on March 25, 2026
Toronto, ON, March 25, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Ontario Court of Justice has found Mark Van Watteghem guilty of two offences under the Technical Standards and Safety Act. The ruling comes after Van Watteghem was caught conducting work on gas appliances without the necessary authorization from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA).
In Ontario, the TSSA operates under strict regulations designed to ensure the safety of gas installations and the integrity of equipment used in gas work. Only those fuel contractors who are properly registered with the TSSA are permitted to conduct such work, which is critical for preventing accidents and ensuring public safety.
Van Watteghem’s actions were deemed egregious not only because he disregarded these regulations, but also due to his history of similar violations. This repeat offence raises significant concerns regarding compliance in the fuel contracting industry. The TSSA emphasizes that adhering to safety guidelines is not merely a bureaucratic hurdle but a matter of public welfare.
The court has yet to announce the penalties Van Watteghem will face, but the potential consequences could include fines and a ban on future licensure, effectively barring him from the industry. The case has served as a reminder of the importance of regulatory compliance and the serious implications of failing to adhere to safety standards.
In the wake of this ruling, the TSSA is expected to reinforce its outreach efforts to educate both contractors and the public about the importance of hiring TSSA-registered professionals. Such measures are essential to safeguarding the community against substandard and potentially dangerous gas work.
This case marks a significant triumph for regulatory enforcement in Ontario, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced in monitoring compliance while protecting public safety.