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Safety Talks

Infrastructure Health & Safety Association

21 Voyager Court South
Etobicoke, Ontario M9W 5M7 Canada
1-800-263-5024
info@ihsa.ca
 Safey Talks

IHSA has additional information on this and other topics.

Visit ihsa.ca or call Customer Service at 1-800-263-5024.

Jobsite safety talks can help prevent accidents and injuries by promoting hazard
awareness in the workplace. IHSA recommends that supervisors present five-
minute safety talks each morning before work starts. Ideally, each talk will involve a
hazard that workers could face on the jobsite that day.
Feel free to send suggestions for future safety talks to info@ihsa.ca

The contents contained in this publication are for general information only. This publication should not be
regarded or relied upon as a definitive guide to government regulations or to safety practices and procedures.
The contents of this publication were, to the best of our knowledge, current at the time of printing. However, no
representations of any kind are made with regard to the accuracy, completeness, or sufficiency of the contents.
The appropriate regulations and statutes should be consulted. Readers should not act on the information
contained herein without seeking specific independent legal advice on their specific circumstance. The
Infrastructure Health & Safety Association is pleased to answer individual requests for counselling and advice.

© Infrastructure Health and Safety Association

All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, or stored
in any material form, without the express written permission of the copyright owner.

Images supplied by the Health and Safety Executive contain public sector information
published by the HSE and licensed under the Open Government Licence V1.0.

Revised May 2008

Second printing, May 2011
Third printing, March 2012
Revised July 2012
Revised November 2013
Revised March 2016
Revised December 2019

978-0-919465-88-6

IHSA would like to thank the members of the Labour-Management Health and
Safety Committees who contributed their knowledge, experience, and time in
preparing many of these safety talks.

ii
Table of Contents
Introduction 36 Hoisting signals—Basic rules

1 Safety talks and JSAs 37 Hoisting signals—Demonstration

3 Sample JSA 38 Gin wheels or pulley wheels

4 JSA Form
Electricity
5 How to use safety talks
39 Electrical safety
Responsibilities and Rights 40 Lockout and tagging
6 Responsibilities 41 Powerline contact
7 Workers’ rights 42 Temporary lighting
8 Workplace violence and harassment 43 Underground utilities
9 Impairment at the workplace 44 Electrical contact—Roofing

Personal Protective Equipment Vehicles and Equipment

10 Eye protection 45 Backing vehicles
11 Hearing protection 46 Traffic control—Public roads 1
12 Respirators—Types 47 Traffic control—Public roads 2
13 Respirators—Fit 48 Dump truck tipovers—Drivers
14 Respirators—Maintenance 49 Dump trucks—Workers in vicinity
15 Hand protection 50 Securing loads
16 Head protection 51 Tarping loads
52 Lift trucks in the warehouse
Working at Heights 53 Slip and fall hazards for truck drivers
17 Guardrails 54 Defensive driving—Highway traffic
18 Fall protection—Basic types 55 Work-related driving
19 Fall protection—Approvals and inspection 56 Tire explosions (Pyrolysis)
20 Fall protection—Rope grabs 57 3-point contact—Vehicles and equipment
21 Working at heights—Site-specific training 58 Skid steers
22 Extension ladders 59 Safe setup of heavy equipment
23 Stepladders 60 Working around conveyors and stackers
24 3-point contact—Ladders 61 Working around stockpiles
25 Scaffolds—Planks and decks 62 Variable reach lift truck hand signals
26 Scaffolds—Structural components 63 Ready-mix driver and concrete pumping hand
27 Suspended access equipment—Fall protection signals
28 Suspended access equipment—Tiebacks 64 Concrete trucks—Cleaning drums 1
29 Suspended access equipment—Counterweights 65 Concrete trucks—Cleaning drums 2
30 Floor and roof openings 66 Sharing the road with trucks
31 Flying forms—Working at heights hazards 67 Distracted driving
32 Formwork—Leading edge
Trenching
Rigging and Hoisting 68 Trenching—Soil types
33 Rigging hardware 69 Trenching—Protection
34 Wire rope—Inspection 70 Trenching—Inspection
35 Wire rope—Cable clips 71 Excavator hand signals

iii
Table of Contents cont’d
Confined Spaces 110 Solvents
72 Confined spaces—Definition 111 Silica
73 Confined spaces—Dangerous atmospheres 112 Silica—Cutting and grinding concrete
74 Confined spaces—Physical hazards 113 Silica—Installing and finishing drywall
114 Dust
Techniques and Tools 115 HEPA filters
75 Safety at home 116 Cement
76 Drywall installation—Noise exposure 117 Concrete
77 Low-slope roofing—Hot asphalt 118 Moulds
78 Hand-held masonry saws 1 119 Sewage
79 Hand-held masonry saws 2 120 West Nile virus
80 Mobile devices while driving 121 Needlestick and sharp-object injuries
81 Mobile devices on worksites 122 Sun protection
82 Working alone 123 Heat stress
83 Heaters 124 Cold stress
84 Housekeeping 125 Winter hazards
85 Falling-object hazards 126 Asbestos—Type 1 operations
86 Hand tools—Pliers and wrenches 127 Asbestos—Type 2 operations
87 Hand tools—Screwdrivers 128 Lead
88 Electric tools—Basic safety 129 Lead-based paint—Welding and cutting
89 Electric tools—Drills 130 Spray polyurethane foam insulation
90 Electric tools—Circular saws 131 Dry-ice blasting
91 Electric tools—Sabre saws 132 Skin hazards—Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)
92 Chainsaws 133 Skin hazards—Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD)
93 Nail guns 134 Welding—Inhalation hazards
94 Floor sealing 135 Working around bird and bat droppings
95 Fire extinguishers
96 Compressed gas cylinders Ergonomics
97 Propane 136 Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—Risk factors
98 Formwork—Placing concrete 137 Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—Controls
99 Formwork—Stripping forms 138 Back care—Basic lifting
100 Flying forms—Struck-by hazards 139 Back care—Lifting sheet materials 1
101 Slips and falls—Unloading structural steel 140 Back care—Lifting sheet materials 2
102 Struck-by injuries—Compressor tools 141 Stretching exercises
103 Struck-by injuries—Electric saws 142 Whole-body vibration (WBV)
143 Welding—MSDs
Occupational Health 144 Flying forms—MSDs
104 Radon gas 145 Driving—MSDs
105 Naturally occurring radioactive material
106 Synthetic amorphous silica insulation Forms
107 Carbon monoxide 146 Report Form
108 Hand-arm vibration
109 Vibration white finger

iv
Safety talks and JSAs
What is a safety talk? How to develop a JSA
A safety talk is a hands-on way to remind your 1. Identify the Job
workers that health and safety are important
The first thing you do when developing a JSA
on the job. Each safety talk provides specific
is identify the main jobs or tasks that your
information on hazards for a particular topic. It
workers will do as part of the job on site.
also outlines things workers can do to prevent
These are the jobs that you will analyze to
injuries and illness. Safety talks are ideal for daily
ensure that everyone can do them safely. List
or weekly safety meetings. But on their own, they
these jobs in order of priority.
aren’t enough to keep your workers safe.
2. Break down each job into steps
What is a JSA? Once you have identified a job for analysis,
the next step is to break down the job into
A job safety analysis (JSA), sometimes called
steps. Each step is a segment of the operation
a job hazard analysis (JHA), is an organized
that is necessary to advance the work. Make
analysis of a specific job in a specific location.
sure you keep the jobs steps in sequential
By completing a JSA, you ensure that you have
order. Get the crew and the health and safety
properly planned the work and that workers can
representative to help with this part.
do it safely. As a written document, it can serve
as evidence of due diligence. These steps are not only specific to the job,
but also specific to the work area. If the work
area changes, the steps may need to change
Before giving safety talks, create JSAs
as well. If the steps are too detailed, the JSA
Before workers begin a job, management must will be burdensome and difficult to follow.
ensure that all the work has been planned so that However, if they are not detailed enough, you
workers can do it safely. Management must set may miss some hazards.
up an effective method or system to identify and
control or eliminate hazards in the workplace. 3. Identify the hazards associated with each job
One way to do this is to develop a job safety step
analysis (JSA) for tasks that your workers will This is the most challenging part of the JSA.
complete as part of their work on the jobsite. Take each step and list the hazards associated
Use the safety talks in this book along with the with it. Think about what could go wrong
JSAs you have created for each job. from a health and safety perspective. Think
about how people, equipment, materials,
Why develop a JSA? processes, and the surrounding environment
may contribute to a hazard.
JSAs are excellent tools for identifying
Here are some things you can do to help you
• the steps involved in the job identify potential hazards.
• the potential hazards associated with the job • Ask workers who are familiar with the job.
• the protective measures you will use to • Review causes of past injuries or illnesses.
protect workers who will complete the job.
• Consider other work going on near the
work area.
Who develops the JSA?
• Understand the legislation or regulatory
A competent person should develop the JSA requirements associated with the work.
because, according the Occupational Health
and Safety Act, he or she has knowledge of the • Review the manufacturer’s instructions for
hazards that are present on the jobsite. Usually, the equipment you are using.
the competent person who writes JSA is the • Consider your own personal experience
foreperson or supervisor. with the job.

Introduction 1
Safety talks and JSAs cont’d
4. Determine controls for each hazard 5. Discuss the completed JSA with workers
Each hazard that you identified in the Once you have completed the first four steps
previous step needs a control. The control for every job that you identified in step one,
explains how you will eliminate the hazard or you will have well-developed JSAs. Now, it’s
how you will significantly reduce the risk of time to share them with your workers. The
injury or illness. JSAs won’t be effective if the workers don’t
Below are some ways to control hazards. know about them or don’t understand them.
Before starting work, review the relevant
JSAs with your crew and make sure everyone
• Modify the process or knows how they are supposed to do the job. If
choose a safer process. you’re dealing with a job or task that will last
Eliminate
• Improve the work more than one day, it’s a good idea to review
the
environment (e.g., the relevant JSAs each morning before work
Hazard
ventilation). starts.
• Modify or change
equipment or tools. Updating JSAs
• Install barriers, such as We know how often work plans change. When
guardrails or machine things change, the supervisor or foreperson
Contain guards. must update the relevant JSAs to reflect any new
the • Enclose the hazard so hazard that results from the change. Then, the
Hazard workers aren’t exposed to supervisor or foreperson must review the revised
it. JSAs with all workers.
• Install a booth for workers.
Keep in mind that if workers perform the same
• Modify the part of job in two different locations, you will probably
the procedure that is need two JSAs because the surrounding
hazardous. environment is different.
Revise the
• Change the sequence of
Work
steps.
Procedure
• Add additional steps
(such as locking out
energy sources).
• Reduce the number
of times workers will
encounter the hazard.
• Reduce the number of
Reduce workers exposed to the
the hazard.
Exposure • Use personal protective
equipment.
• Rotate jobs to reduce
the time each worker is
exposed to the hazard.

2 Introduction
 Sample JSA JSA No. ________
Company Name: ABC Company Project Name: Big Project
Work Description: Geotechnical Soils Investigation Work Location: Area outside north and south of contractor parking
Start Date: November 19, 2012 Duration: Approximately 2 weeks
Major Equipment: Drill Rig Reference Material: Soils Investigation Specification, Bore Hole Location Sketch
Trade Groups (Including sub-contractors): Geotechnical Technicians, Labourers, Operating Engineers

Job: To Begin (Date):

Department: Supervisor in Charge:
Prepared By: Approved By: Date Approved:
Job Steps Hazards Barriers or Controls
Spray paint or other chemical marking products MSDS sheet or consumer product labels
1. Establish general • Have owner/authorized personnel accompany
locations for Electrical environment • Approved electrically resistant footwear
boreholes during Personnel contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach
initial site walk-about
Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Moving vehicles in vicinity Stay within visible barriers when required
2. Take samples for Have owner/authorized personnel accompany
Electrical environment Approved electrically resistant footwear
contaminants at six
proposed borehole Personnel or equipment contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach
locations Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Moving vehicles in vicinity
Stay within visible barriers when required
Contact of underground electrical apparatus Excavate by hand only
Personnel wear hard hats and gloves
Pinches, cuts, strains Safe lifting practices
Possible contaminated fill soils Approved sampling and handling practices
3. Locate underground Electrical environment Approved electrically resistant footwear
utilities Plans showing underground utility location
False or missing locates due to static or induction Appropriate locate instrumentation
electric fields Documentation of locates
Personnel or equipment contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach
Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Moving vehicles in vicinity Stay within visible barriers when required

4. Set up drill rig at Electrical environment Approved electrically resistant footwear

borehole locations Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Moving vehicles in vicinity All work to be carried out within visible barriers
Lane closure and/or door closure permits at boreholes 3,5,6,7 and 8
Pipe rack overhead at borehole 3 Use half-tower on drill rig
Personnel or equipment contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach
Ground drill rig using two 4/0 portable grounds due to non-
Ground potential rise, induction availability of station grounds (see step 3)
Proximity of borehole to buried services/utilities Hand excavate to expose services
5. Drill boreholes to Electrical environment Approved electrically resistant footwear
required depth Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Moving vehicles in vicinity All work to be carried out within visible barriers
Maintain safe distance away from augers
High-speed rotating augers Wear close-fitting clothing
Recognized drilling practices
High decibel levels during drilling Hearing protection
Flying particles/debris Approved eye protection
Plans showing underground utility location
Contact of underground electrical apparatus by Locate done using appropriate equipment
augers or samplers Drill within defined area
Excavation permits
Personnel or equipment contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach
Ground potential rise, induction Ground drill rig using two 4/0 portable ground rods
Proximity of borehole to buried services/utilities Hand excavate to expose services
Personnel wear gloves, eye protection
Approved practices per results of chemical analysis
Possible contaminated fills/soils If unknown contaminants encountered, stop work in that area and notify the
owner. Do not resume work until conditions are identified and appropriate
protective measures are taken
Possible contaminated soil cuttings or slurry resulting Approved handling practices per chemical test results
Soils to be contained in drums, if contaminated, for disposal at licensed
from drilling activities facility
MSDS sheet or consumer product labels
Bentonite, cement, and other drilling agents Approved personal protective equipment
Personnel wear hard hats and gloves
Pinches, cuts, strains Safe lifting practices
6. Move drill rig off Have owner/authorized personnel accompany
Electrical environment
of and between Approved electrically resistant footwear
borehole locations Moving vehicles in vicinity Reflective safety vest or other clothing
Personnel or equipment contacting live electrical apparatus Safe limits of approach

NOTES: 1. Borehole locations shown on attached plan

Introduction 3
 JSA No. ________
JSA Form
Company _________________________________ Project __________________________________

Contractor ________________________________ Supervisor in charge _______________________

Work location _____________________________ Estimated start date/duration _______________

Work description _____________________________________________________________________

Trade groups (including sub-contractors) _________________________________________________

Major equipment _____________________________________________________________________

Reference material ____________________________________________________________________

Job Steps Hazards Barriers or Controls

Prepared by _______________________________________________________________________

Approved by __________________________________ Date approved _____________________

Instructions:
1. To be prepared by the supervisor most directly involved in the work.
2. Must be approved by preparer’s management supervisor.
3. Must be reviewed by all workers involved in the work.
4. Emergency plan must be considered.
5. If the work plan changes and the JSA is amended, changes must be reviewed by all workers
involved in the work.

4 Introduction
How to use safety talks
Once you have completed the necessary job What makes a safety talk work?
safety analysis (JSA) for each particular job or
workplace, you will have identified the hazards • Choose a talk suited to your site and work
and planned to eliminate or contain them. When conditions.
the hazard cannot be eliminated or contained,
controls need to be put in place to reduce the • Deliver the talk where it will be most
risk of injuries or illnesses for workers. appropriate. That could be in the job
office, out on the site, or near the tools and
A safety talk is a hands-on way to remind equipment you are talking about.
workers of these controls, how they work, and
that health and safety are important on the job. • Introduce the subject clearly. Let workers
Safety talks deal with specific problems in the know exactly what you are going to talk
workplace. They do not replace formal training. about and why it’s important to them.

Each safety talk addresses a specific hazard. You • Refer to the safety talk for information, but
can use them to remind workers about the health wherever possible use your own words.
and safety requirements for the tools, equipment,
• Connect key points to things your crew is
materials, and procedures they use every day or
familiar with on the project.
for particular parts of the job.
• Pinpoint hazards. Talk about what could
Each safety talk in this book will take about five
happen.
minutes to present.
• Use information from the safety talk to
explain how to control or prevent these
Why give a safety talk? hazards.
Your objective is to help workers RECOGNIZE • Wherever possible, use real tools,
and CONTROL hazards on the project. You equipment, material, and jobsite situations to
may be a supervisor, a health and safety demonstrate key points.
representative, a member of the Joint Health and
Safety Committee (JHSC), a safety officer, or • Ask for questions. Answer them to the best of
someone with similar duties. your knowledge. Get more information when
necessary.
You give safety talks because you are responsible
for advising workers about the existing or • Ask workers to demonstrate what they have
potential dangers to their health and safety. Using learned.
safety talks demonstrates both the employer’s
and workers’ commitment to health and safety. Keep a record of each talk that you deliver.
Include the date, topic, and names of attendees.
Photocopy the Report Form at the back of
this manual and use it to keep a record of each
session.
REMEMBER: A safety talk may be the only
information workers receive about a particular
tool, piece of equipment, type of material, or
work procedure on the project. When choosing
and presenting your talk, do everything you
can to help workers remember and act on the
message you deliver.

Introduction 5
Responsibilities
Explain dangers SUPERVISOR (See OHSA, s. 27 and 32)

• Ensure that the health and safety of workers

Construction can be dangerous business if people are never in danger.
don’t fulfill their responsibilities for on-site health
and safety. • Ensure that workers work safely and
according to the law and company policies.
Learning your responsibilities is the first step.
You should also be aware of other people’s • Ensure that workers use and wear any
responsibilities so you know who to talk to if you protective equipment or clothing required by
see a hazard. the law or the employer.
• Advise workers of any possible danger
Identify controls to their health and safety on the job. This
includes the risk of workplace violence from a
Health and safety hazards could be controlled person with a history of violent behaviour.
if everyone knew their own responsibilities and • Provide workers with written instructions
acted on them. when required about the measures and
The Occupational Health and Safety Act and procedures to be taken for their protection.
Regulations for Construction Projects (O. Reg.
213/91) define the responsibilities of workplace WORKER (See OHSA, s. 28)
parties such as constructor, employer, supervisor, • Work safely at all times. Follow the company
and worker. You can get a copy of the Act and rules and the occupational health and safety
Regs from IHSA or by visiting ihsa.ca. regulations.
Examples of workplace party responsibilities: • Wear any protective equipment or clothing as
CONSTRUCTOR (See OHSA, s. 23) required by your employer or the regulations.
• Never remove or make ineffective any safety
• Ensure that everyone and all work processes guard or protective equipment.
comply with the law. This includes all
employers (subcontractors) and their workers. • Report to your employer or supervisor any
hazard or unsafe conditions in the workplace
• Ensure that all workers’ health and safety are and any protective device that is missing or
protected. not working properly.
• Provide notification of project to the Ministry • Report all incidents, injuries, and near misses
of Labour. or any violations of the law.
EMPLOYER (See OHSA, s. 25)
Demonstrate
• Provide equipment, materials, and protective
devices, and maintain them. Hold up the “green book” (Occupational Health
• Ensure that everyone and all processes and Safety Act and Regulations for Construction
comply with the requirements of the law. Projects) and ask your crew what they know
• Provide information and instruction to protect about it.
workers’ health and safety. Ask your crew to name:
• Provide competent supervision. • Two responsibilities of employers
• Acquaint workers with hazards. • Two responsibilities of supervisors.
• Take every precaution reasonable to protect
workers.
• Ensure that all workers on a jobsite are at
least 16 years old.

6 Responsibilities and Rights

Workers’ rights
Explain dangers A worker on the JHSC has the right to be
present at the beginning of testing, to
participate in Ministry of Labour inspections
Employers have the right to determine and and investigations, to investigate serious
control the work, as long as everything is legal. accidents, and to inspect the jobsite regularly.
Workers, however, have the power to protect
their health and safety. JHSCs have the right to make recommendations
to employers about health and safety
improvements. Employers must reply in writing
Identify controls within 21 days. Certified worker members have
the right to investigate complaints dealing with
dangerous circumstances.
Ontario law spells out the three rights that give
workers this power: the right to know, the right to 3. RIGHT TO REFUSE
participate, and the right to refuse.
Workers have the right to refuse work if they
1. RIGHT TO KNOW believe it endangers their health and safety.

Workers have the right to know about workplace The OHSA sets out specific procedures. It’s a two-
health and safety hazards. stage process.

According to the Occupational Health and Safety You can refuse based on your subjective belief
Act (OHSA), employers must provide a wide that the work is dangerous. You must inform the
range of information about workplace hazards to supervisor or employer.
workers and Joint Health and Safety Committees
(JHSCs). JHSCs have a duty to communicate with Once a supervisor has investigated, you may still
workers. have reasonable grounds for believing that the
work is dangerous. In this case, you may continue
WHMIS, the Workplace Hazardous Materials to refuse work. A Ministry of Labour inspector
Information System, is one example of the right to must be called to investigate.
know. WHMIS is a Canada-wide system designed
to protect workers by providing information
about hazardous materials on the job. Demonstrate
WHMIS has three main parts: Ask your crew the following questions:
1. Labels • What rights do construction workers have on
2. Safety data sheets (SDSs) the job?
3. Worker education and training. • Who are the members of the JHSC on this
project?
2. RIGHT TO PARTICIPATE
Show workers the location of the MOL’s
Workers have the right to make mandatory Health & Safety at Work poster and
recommendations about health and safety. the mandatory JHSC or H&S Rep poster on the
Employers must recognize this right to site.
participate. They must consult with JHSCs about
methods of testing equipment, substances, or
other workplace factors, and about health and
safety training programs.

Responsibilities and Rights 7

Workplace violence and harassment
Workplace violence is the exercise of physical Identify controls
force by a person against a worker in a workplace
that causes or could cause physical injury. Companies are legally required to have a written
It includes any attempt or threat to exercise workplace violence and harassment policy and
physical force. A threat can be a statement or post it in a conspicuous location at the workplace.
behaviour that a worker reasonably interprets as
intimidating. Companies must also protect workers from
workplace violence and harassment. This includes
Workplace harassment is defined in the conducting investigations and advising workers
Occupational Health and Safety Act as “engaging if there is a risk of workplace violence from a
in a course of vexatious comment or conduct person with a history of violent behaviour.
against a worker, in a workplace, that is known or
ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome.” You can’t always control the behaviour of others,
Vexatious means causing annoyance or worry. but you can control your own behaviour.
• Act respectfully towards others while at work
and during work-related activitives.
Explain dangers
• Do not engage in or put up with workplace
Workplace violence and harassment can be: violence or harassment, intentionally or
unintentionally. Remember that harassment is
• Verbal often about perception rather than intention.
• Physical • Respect the diversity of the workplace.
• Visual (e.g., gestures) Learn to appreciate the unique qualities and
strengths of a diverse workforce.
• Environmental (e.g., posting derogatory or
sexually oriented posters). • Comply with all company policies and co-
operate with any efforts to investigate and
It can include bullying and gossip as well as
resolve matters arising from a report of
domestic violence that spills over into the
workplace violence and harassment.
workplace.
Workplace violence or harassment negatively
• Actively participate in any workplace violence
and harassment training required by the
affects workers and the work environment.
employer and by law.
• It can damage people’s physical and mental
health.
• In the event of a workplace violence incident,
take care of your own immediate physical
• It can decrease productivity and undermine safety first and then report the incident to HR,
the company culture. to a manager, or to the police, whichever the
• It can hurt a business financially because of situation warrants.
work disruptions, decreased productivity,
and the costs of violence-related injuries, Demonstrate
government fines, and potential legal action.
• It can negatively affect the relationship Review your company’s workplace violence and
between coworkers and between workers and harassment policy with your workers. Show them
employers. the location where it’s posted. Be clear about who
• It can ruin the company’s reputation with the policy applies to (subcontractors, temporary
clients and undermine hiring efforts. workers, etc.) and what the consequences will be
if they violate it.
Go over the steps to report an instance of
NOTE: If your company does not have a workplace violence workplace violence and harassment, explain how
and harassment policy in place, download a sample one from the investigation will be handled, and point out
the Workplace Violence and Harassment Toolkit at ihsa.ca that workers are protected from any reprisal as a
result of a report made in good faith.

8 Responsibilities and Rights

Impairment at the workplace
Many people believe that the decriminalization of If you become aware of an employee who is
cannabis will lead to an increase in workers being showing signs of impairment, it is very important
impaired at the workplace. to take action immediately.
We often think of impairment as a result of using Signs of impairment can vary based on the
substances such as alcohol or drugs— whether individual and the type of impairment:
they are over-the-counter, prescription, or illicit. • Signs of substance use can include the odour
However, impairment can result from other things of alcohol or drugs, glassy or red eyes, poor
such as: coordination, or slurring.
• Family or relationship problems • Signs of impairment from fatigue, stress,
• Fatigue (mental or physical) medical conditions, or relationship problems
• Traumatic shock can include changes in appearance,
performance, and behaviour.
• Medical conditions or treatments.
Examples of actions to take in the case of
These are all situations that may impair a person suspected impairment at work include the
from focusing on their tasks at work. following:
• Call for first aid or emergency medical
Explain dangers assistance, if necessary.
• Notify a supervisor who can speak to the
Impairment is a state of reduced physical or employee in a private area to discuss their
mental ability. No matter what the reason is, behaviour. Another supervisor or designated
when workers are impaired on the job, it can have person should be present as a witness.
serious consequences such as:
• If necessary, call a taxi or have the employee
• Workplace incidents and injuries escorted home. Do not allow them to drive
• Absenteeism themselves if you suspect impairment.
• Reduced quality of work If a worker feels that they themselves are
impaired, they should immediately notify a
• Strain on work relationships supervisor or designated person, who will assist
• Decline in physical, emotional, and mental them confidentially.
health.
This is why impairment in the workplace must be Demonstrate
managed as a potential workplace hazard.
Ask your crew if they know any other causes and
Identify controls signs of impairment.
Review your company’s impairment policy and
The most important way to reduce the impact of response procedure with them.
impairment on the workplace is to have a proper Explain how impairment will be handled at your
policy and response procedure in place. The workplace. (Depending on your company’s
policy must include clear guidance on how to impairment policy, this could include such things
handle known or suspected impairment at work. as having a conversation about the situation,
This policy and response procedure should removing a worker from the jobsite, discussing
cover what to do in any situation, regardless of treatment options, or taking disciplinary action.)
the cause of impairment. The policy should be
communicated to all workers.
NOTE: If your company does not have an impairment policy in
place, download a sample one from ihsa.ca
(See IHSA.ca Magazine, Volume 18, Issue 2.)

Responsibilities and Rights 9

Eye protection
List eye hazards on site. Look for the CSA logo on the
frames, whether the glasses are
prescription or non-prescription.
___________________________________
For welding, eye protection must
also be marked with the shade
___________________________________ number.

Follow the tips below:

___________________________________
• Don’t wear contact lenses on site. Dust and
other particles can get under the lens. If you
___________________________________ must wear contact lenses for medical reasons,
wear appropriate eye protection as well.
• Keep your safety glasses on when you wear
other protection such as a welding helmet or
faceshield. Why? Because when you lift up
Explain dangers the visor or shield, you may still be exposed to
flying chips, dust, or other hazards.
We do so many jobs without protecting our eyes.
Just think of the eye hazards in our work:
• Match your eye protection to the hazard.
Goggles that protect you from dust may not
• Flying dust and grit protect you from splash or radiation.
• UV light from welding arcs • Make sure your eyewear fits snugly.
• Sparks and slag from welding and cutting • Clean dirty lenses with water or a lens cleaning
• Abrasives from sandblasting solution to float the dirt away instead of
scratching it into the lenses.
• Chemical splash
• If an eye injury occurs, treat it right away. Get
• Pipe and wire sticking out of walls
first aid for a minor injury or see a doctor for a
• Ties and wire hanging from ceilings more serious injury.
• Sun and wind. • Get your eyes checked every couple of years
to make sure that problems haven’t developed
We’ve all had dust and dirt in our eyes. Some of or gotten worse.
us have been hit in the eye by chips of wood, con-
crete, and stone.
Demonstrate
A little bigger, a little faster—these particles could
leave us with limited sight or none at all. Take a look at eye protection used by your crew.

Point out any cracked or broken frames and

Identify controls scratched or pitted lenses that should be
replaced.
You’ve only got one pair of eyes. Make them last a
lifetime. Review the company policy on providing and
replacing eyewear.
Wearing the right protection can prevent most
eye injuries. Basic protection is safety glasses Review any special requirements for welding
with side shields. helmets, sandblasting hoods, faceshields, etc.

Take extra precautions in windy conditions or If you have an eyewash station on site, show your
when doing jobs where eye injuries are more crew the location and explain how to use it.
likely.

10 Personal Protective Equipment

Hearing protection
List noise hazards on site. The Noise regulation also require employers to
control noise at the source or along the path
before relying on hearing protection devices to
___________________________________ control noise at the worker.
If hearing protectors such as earplugs and
___________________________________ earmuffs are the only option, employers must
train workers how to use them.

___________________________________
Demonstrate
Review company policy and procedures on
hearing protection.
Explain dangers Show two types of hearing protectors:
• Earplugs
Many workers are overexposed to noise. In time,
overexposure can damage your hearing. • Earmuffs.
Hearing loss prevents you from hearing other Show how to insert earplugs:
hazards on the job. It also causes problems in 1. Reach one hand around back of head.
your personal life.
2. Pull ear upwards to straighten S-shaped ear
• It interferes with how you hear normal speech. canal.
• It prevents you from socializing. 3. Insert plug with other hand according to the
• It can cause high blood pressure. manufacturer’s instructions.

• It is permanent.

Identify controls
Hearing loss is preventable. The best prevention is
hearing protection.
Noise is any unwanted sound. There are two
types—continuous noise (e.g., from a generator)
and impulse noise (e.g., from a nail gun).
Noise is measured in decibels (dBA). For example,
a quick-cut saw produces 115 dBA, a jackhammer
produces 110 dBA, and a drill produces 100 dBA.
The noise level doubles every time it increases by
3 dBA. So when the level goes from 80 dBA to
83 dBA, the noise is twice as loud.
In the same way, the noise level drops 6 dBA
when you double your distance away from it. This
will make the noise level four times quieter.
The Noise regulation (O. Reg. 381) sets a limit of
85 dBA of noise exposure over an 8-hour work
shift. This is the loudness of a room full of people.
Proper Technique for Inserting Earplugs

Personal Protective Equipment 11

Respirators—Types
List respiratory hazards on site. Respirators only work when they are selected,
maintained, and used properly. Each respirator
must be matched to the particular hazard it
___________________________________ is designed to protect against. There is no all-
purpose respirator that can be used in every
situation.
___________________________________
Air-purifying respirators have the following
___________________________________ features:
• Filter contaminants like dust and fibres out of
the air.
Explain dangers • Do NOT supply air or oxygen.
• Must be matched to specific hazards such as
Construction can involve airborne hazards—for solvent vapours or mist from sprayed form oil.
instance, mist from spray-painting, fumes from
• Are specified in safety data sheets (SDSs) for
welding, vapours from adhesives, and dust from
controlled products.
concrete cutting.
• Have a limited lifespan based on contaminant
Airborne hazards can have short-term effects
levels and filter load. (Do NOT rely on the
such as sneezing or long-term effects such as
stated “expiry date”.)
lung disease.
Supplied-air respirators have the following
Identify controls features:
• Supply the wearer with breathable air from a
Respirators are the last line of defence against compressor, cylinder, or tank.
airborne hazards. When we can’t isolate the
hazard or use a different product, we have to
• Offer the BEST protection against many
hazards.
wear a respirator.
There are two basic types of respirators:
• Have limitations (for instance, air tanks are
bulky and air lines can get tangled).
1. Air-purifying respirators
• Are the only respirators that can be used
2. Supplied-air respirators. for confined space rescue or in dangerous
atmospheres.

Demonstrate
Show CSA and NIOSH labels and stress that only
CSA- and NIOSH-approved respirators that are
appropriate for the hazard should be used.
Show examples of air-purifying and supplied-air
respirators. Show how to replace filters.
Show where information on respirators can be
found on a safety data sheet (SDS).
Review company rules and procedures on
respirators.

Air-Purifying Respirator Supplied-Air Respirator

12 Personal Protective Equipment

Respirators—Fit
Explain dangers Negative-Pressure Seal Check

With respirators, one size doesn’t fit all.

Even with three different sizes of facepieces, for
instance, no one size from one manufacturer may
fit you. A different brand may be necessary.
If a respirator doesn’t fit right, it can’t protect you.
Even when a respirator fits properly, it may get
nudged or bumped out of position while you’re
working, causing leaks that can be dangerous.
Respirators and cartridges must be appropriate
for the hazardous substances in the air.
Particulate respirators, for example, don’t work
for acids, solvents, ammonia, or other gaseous
mixtures.

POSITIVE-PRESSURE SEAL CHECK

Identify controls
• Put on the facepiece and adjust it to fit
You should be clean-shaven to get the best comfortably—snug, not overly tight.
possible seal with your respirator. Facial hair can
• Block the exhalation valve. This is usually on
cause leakage and reduce protection.
the bottom of the respirator.
Test for fit every time you put the respirator on
• Try to breathe out.
and throughout your shift.
• The facepiece should puff slightly away from
Two easy tests can show whether most reusable
your face and stay like that while you hold
respirators fit right and don’t leak:
your breath for 10 seconds.
1. Negative-pressure seal check
If you find a leak, adjust the facepiece or straps
2. Positive-pressure seal check. and repeat the test until you get a good fit.
Peform seal checks periodically while you wear
Demonstrate the respirator.

Using a respirator, demonstrate seal checks to Positive-Pressure Seal Check

your crew as you talk.

NEGATIVE-PRESSURE SEAL CHECK

• Put on the facepiece and adjust it to fit

comfortably—snug, not overly tight.
• Block the air inlets. These are usually the filter
openings on the sides of the facepiece.
• Try to breathe in.
• If there are no leaks, the facepiece should
collapse slightly and stay like that while you
hold your breath for 10 seconds.

Personal Protective Equipment 13

Respirators—Maintenance
List breathing hazards on site. As gas and organic vapour filters are used, their
ability to remove gases and vapours decreases.

A filter must be changed if:

___________________________________
• it is damaged
___________________________________ • it becomes difficult to breathe through
• the replacement period specified by the
___________________________________ manufacturer is reached
• the cartridge displays an “end-of-service-life”
___________________________________ indicator.

Leave a contaminated area and change filters

right away if:
Explain dangers • you can smell or taste the contaminant
through the filter
To provide protection, respirators must be • your throat or lungs feel irritated.
properly maintained. Dirty, missing, or damaged
parts can prevent your respirator from working Each worker should have their own respirator.
properly. Before a respirator is used a different worker,
it must be washed and disinfected. Check the
For instance, valves that are damaged, missing, manufacturer’s instructions.
or poorly seated can drastically reduce the
protection provided by your respirator. Store respirators in a dry location away from dust,
chemicals, oil, and grease. Protect it from the sun,
There’s also a danger in sharing respirators—it’s excessive heat and cold, and vermin.
not hygienic.

Demonstrate
Identify controls
Demonstrate what to look for when inspecting a
Particulate respirator filters are identified by a respirator. Inspect two or three respirators in use.
letter and a number. The letters are: Make necessary adjustments and arrange repairs
N – not resistant to oil or replacements.

R – resistant to oil Check the facepiece for holes, cracks, and splits.
P – oil-proof. Check the inhalation valves for damage, dust and
dirt, and proper seating.
The numbers are 95, 99, and 100. These indicate
efficiency: 95%, 99%, 99.9% (100). Remove filters and make sure the flapper valve
(usually a flexible disk) isn’t missing or damaged.
Filter cartridges for chemicals such as ammonia, Make sure the flapper valve is seated properly in
organic vapours, solvents, or acid gases use the valve assembly.
different filter technology. Look at the cartridge
before selecting a respirator. Remove the cover at the bottom of the respirator
to inspect the exhalation valve. Check the valve
With use, filters become harder to breathe for damage, dirt, and proper seating. Make sure
through. You’re breathing not only through the that straps and buckles are free of damage and
filter but also through the contaminants that build working properly.
up on the outside of the filter.

14
Hand protection
Our hands also need protection against
List hazards to hands on site. chemicals. Check the label to see whether a
product must be handled with gloves and what
types of gloves are required.
___________________________________
If that information isn’t on the label, check
the safety data sheet (SDS). An SDS must be
___________________________________
available on site for any controlled products that
are being used.
___________________________________
Using the right gloves for the job is important.
For instance, rubber gloves are no good with
___________________________________ solvents and degreasers. The gloves will dissolve
on contact.

Explain dangers Demonstrate

Talk about the specific chemicals used on your
The best tools we have are our hands. We need to
jobsite and the type of gloves recommended for
protect them on the job.
each.
Manual work exposes our hands to many different
Use the SDS for reference or the Glove Selection
hazards, from cuts to chemicals, from pinching to
Chart below.
crushing, and from blisters to burns.

Identify controls Glove Selection Chart

Leather gloves provide good protection against Chemical Name Glove Selection
sharp edges, splinters, and heat. Cotton or other Acetone Butyl Rubber
materials don’t stand up well. You should wear Cellosolve PVA, PVC, Neoprene
them only for light-duty jobs. Cellosolve Acetate PVA, PVC
Cyclohexane NBR, Viton®
Wearing anti-vibration gloves when using power Hexane Neoprene, NBR, PVA
Methyl Alcohol Neoprene, Rubber, NBR
tools and equipment can help prevent hand-arm
Methyl Chloroform PVA, Viton
vibration syndrome (HAVS). Methylene Chloride PVA, Viton
Methyl Ethyl Ketone Butyl Rubber
HAVS causes the following changes in fingers and Methyl Isobutyl Ketone Butyl Rubber, PVA
hands: Mineral Spirits Neoprene
Naphtha NBR, PVA
• Circulation problems such as whitening or Perchloroethylene NBR, PVA, Viton
bluish discoloration, especially after exposure Stoddard Solvent PVA, NBR, Rubber
to cold Toluene PVA, Viton
Turpentine PVA, NBR
• Sensory problems such as numbness and Trichloroethylene PVA, Viton
tingling 1, 1, 1 Trichloroethane PVA, Viton
1, 1, 2 Trichloroethane PVA, Viton
• Musculoskeletal problems such as difficulty Xylene PVA, Viton
with fine motor movements—for instance,
picking up small objects. PVA – Polyvinyl Alcohol
PVC – Polyvinyl Chloride
NBR – Nitrite Butyl Rubber
Workers who use vibrating tools such as Viton® – Dupont tradename product
jackhammers, grinders, riveters, and compactors
on a daily basis may develop HAVS.

15
Head protection
• Never wear a baseball cap under your hard hat.
A 70-lb metal beam fell from the seventh
storey of a condominium development and • Never paint a hard hat or make holes in a hard
struck a worker on the head, face, and torso. hat.
The man was taken to hospital in serious
condition but survived. Police credit the • A hard hat should normally be worn facing
man’s hard hat with saving his life. forward. It may be worn backwards only if it has
a reverse orientation mark (see below).

Explain dangers
A hard hat can protect you from cuts, scrapes,
and bruises. It can protect you from falling
objects, which can cause severe damage to the
head and spine. It can prevent electric shock and
limit your exposure to UV radiation from the sun.

Identify controls Reverse Orientation Mark

Hard hats are mandatory for every worker at all

times on a construction project in Ontario. Keep • Never store your hard hat in the rear window of
the following points in mind to ensure that you your car—intense sunlight can make it age more
get the best use out of your hard hat. quickly.
• Use the correct type of hard hat for the job. • Never spray your hard hat with insect
The hard hat should be labeled with the CSA or repellant—it can damage the material.
ANSI Type and Class of protection.
• Hard hats are not made to last forever. Find out
• A Class E hard hat is required for construction the useful life of your hard hat by contacting
and utility projects. It provides electrical the manufacturer or reading the manufacturer’s
protection up to 20,000 volts. instructions.
• Type I and Type II hard hats meet the CSA and
ANSI standard for impact protection. Type I Demonstrate
hard hats protect the top of the head, while
Type II hard hats protect both the top and Together as a crew, inspect your hard hats.
the sides of the head. Type II hard hats are
recommended for use on construction projects. Check the shell for cracks, dents, deep cuts, or
gouges. If the surface appears dull or chalky
• Hard hats that are poorly maintained or rather than shiny, the hard hat may have become
improperly used can fail. It’s important that you brittle.
follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Check the suspension for cracks or tears. Make
• Inspect your hard hat every day before you use sure straps are not twisted, cut, or frayed.
it.
If you find any signs of damage or degradation,
• Clean your hard hat using mild soap or remove the hard hat from service immediately.
a cleaning agent recommended by the
manufacturer. Never use a cleaning solvent.

16 Personal Protective Equipment

Guardrails
Explain dangers
Falls are the number one cause of critical injuries
and deaths of Ontario workers on construction
sites. All workers must be protected from a fall
hazard.

Identify controls
Guardrails are often the best and most convenient
means of fall protection.
Where possible, guardrails must be installed
• Along the open edges of roofs and floors
• On formwork, scaffolds, and other work
surfaces
• Around openings in floors, roofs, and around
skylights
• Wherever workers are exposed to the risk of All guardrails—especially wooden ones—should
falling. be inspected regularly.
Guardrails must be installed no more than 30 cm Sometimes guardrails have to be removed to land
(1 ft) from an open edge. material or make installations along floor or roof
They must be high enough and strong enough edges. In those cases, the open edge should be
to resist the force of workers bumping into or roped off and marked with warning signs. Workers
backing up against them. They must also be who go inside the roped-off area must wear fall
able to withstand the loads specified in the protection and be tied off.
Construction Projects regulation (O. Reg. 213/91, Although guardrails are the best method of
s. 26.3(5)). protecting workers around floor and roof
A typical wooden guardrail system must have: openings, they may not always be practical. You
may have to use a protective cover.
• A top rail, mid rail, and toeboard secured to
vertical supports Protective covers are made of planks, plywood,
or steel plate and are securely fastened over the
• A top rail between 0.9 m (3 ft) and 1.1 m (3 ft
opening. They must be strong enough to support
7 in) high
any weight reasonably expected to be placed on
• A toeboard installed flush with the surface them.
and at least 89 mm (3 1/2 in) high (or 100 mm
In some cases, workers have removed covers from
(4 in) high if not made of wood)
openings and then fallen through. To prevent this,
• Posts no more than 2.4 m (8 ft) apart. covers should be clearly marked in bright paint
Wire rope and manufactured systems of metal with warning signs such as: DANGER! DO NOT
frames and wire mesh can also be used as REMOVE! DO NOT LOAD!
guardrails if they are as strong and durable as
wooden guardrails. Demonstrate
Well-anchored posts are essential. You can use
vertical shoring jacks, screw-clamp posts, clamp Review the types of guardrails used on site. Ask
binding posts, or posts that fit into sleeves cast your workers where else guardrails should be
right in the slab. installed.

Working at Heights 17
Fall protection—Basic types
List fall hazards on site. A fall arrest system must also be worn when
workers are:
• On a rolling scaffold that is being moved
___________________________________
• Getting on, working from, or getting off a
suspended platform, suspended scaffold, or
___________________________________ bosun’s chair.
A fall arrest system prevents a falling worker from
___________________________________ hitting the ground or any object below. It consists
of a full-body harness attached to a lanyard and
energy absorber, which reduces some of the force
exerted on the body when a fall is arrested.
Explain dangers The lanyard and energy abosorber is attached to
an adequate anchor point or to a rope grab on an
Falls are the number-one cause of accidental adequately anchored lifeline.
deaths and critical injuries in construction. And Full-body harnesses are fully adjustable and
you don’t have to fall far to be injured or killed. available in different sizes. Some types are
specially designed for women. Proper fit of the
harness is important, especially when it is being
Identify controls used for fall arrest.
On many sites, guardrails are the most common
and convenient means of fall protection. Where Demonstrate
guardrails cannot be used, workers must use
another means of fall protection to prevent a fall. Ask workers if they have taken CPO-approved
Two basic types of fall protection are travel working at heights (WAH) training within the
restraint and fall arrest. Both involve wearing a previous three years and have received site-
full-body harness. specific WAH instruction.
Remind your workers how to put on, adjust, and
1. TRAVEL RESTRAINT wear a full-body harness.
A travel restraint system keeps you from getting 1. Adjust the chest
too close to an unprotected edge. The lifeline and strap so that it is
lanyard are adjusted to let you reach the edge but snug and located
not fall over it. near the middle
A full-body harness used with a travel restraint of the chest (i.e.,
system attaches to an adequately anchored above the sternum,
lifeline or to a lanyard that attaches to an just below the
adequately anchored lifeline. armpits).

2. FALL ARREST 2. Adjust the leg

straps so that a
If no other means of fall protection is in place, you fist can fit snugly
must use a fall arrest system if you are in danger between the strap
of falling: and leg.
• More than 3 metres 3. Adjust the shoulder
• Into operating machinery straps so that the
back D-ring rests
• Into water or another liquid between the Full-Body Harness
• Into or onto a hazardous substance or object. shoulder blades.

18 Working at Heights
Fall protection—Approvals and inspections
List fall hazards on site. If any part of a fall protection system has been
used to arrest a fall, it must be discarded or
removed from service until the manufacturer
___________________________________ certifies that all components are safe for reuse.

___________________________________ Demonstrate

___________________________________ With your crew, inspect the components of a fall

arrest system used on your site.
HARNESS
• Inspect hardware and straps to ensure that
they are intact and undamaged.
• Check that moving parts work freely through
Explain dangers their full range of motion.
• Check that webbing is free of burns, cuts,
When you’re using a travel restraint or fall arrest loose or broken stitching, frayed material, and
system, your life depends on your equipment. If signs of heat or chemical damage.
it is not certified by a recognized authority or is
• Make sure that the fall arrest indicator has not
not properly inspected and maintained, you risk
deployed.
injury and death.
LANYARD
Identify controls • Make sure the lanyard fastens securely to the
D-ring on the harness.

APPROVALS • Inspect the lanyard for fraying, kinking, and

loose or broken stitching.
Safety harnesses must be
approved by the Canadian • Look for rust, cracks, and damage to the
Standards Association lanyard hardware.
(CSA). Look for the CSA • Inspect energy-absorbing lanyards regularly.
logo on your harness. Look for stress or tearing on the cover jacket
Also look for the CSA of the energy absorber.
logo on lanyards, energy LIFELINE
absorbers, lifelines and rope • Inspect fibre rope lifelines for fraying, burns,
grabs. The logo means that CSA Logo kinking, cuts, and signs of wear and tear.
the equipment has been
manufactured to meet the • Check retractable lifelines to ensure they
requirements of a national standard. operate smoothly. Pull out the line and jerk
it suddenly. The braking action should be
INSPECTIONS immediate and tight.
Inspect your fall protection equipment before ROPE GRAB
each use and remove any components from • Look for damage, cracking, dents, bends, or
service if their integrity is in doubt. Store your fall signs of deformation.
protection equipment so that it’s well protected
from the weather. • Check that connecting rings are centred—not
bent to one side or otherwise deformed.
A worker who is competent in inspection
should perform an annual inspection of the fall • Check for rust or sharp edges, signs of wear
protection equipment and document the results. or metal fatigue. and moving parts that don’t
work smoothly.

Working at Heights 19
Fall protection—Rope grabs
List fall hazards on site. Demonstrate
Using a rope grab and lifeline, demonstrate the
___________________________________ following as you talk:
• When attaching a
___________________________________ rope grab to a lifeline,
always make sure the
___________________________________ arrow on the device
points along the lifeline
towards the anchor
point (pictured).
• After putting the rope
Explain dangers grab on the lifeline,
give it a firm tug in the
With rope grabs, there are three basic hazards: direction of a fall to
1. Attaching them the wrong way make sure it engages.

2. Grabbing hold of them during a fall • Some rope grabs have a “parking feature”
that locks at a point on the lifeline that won’t
3. Using them with the wrong size or type of let you reach a fall hazard.
rope.
• Ensure that the lifeline and rope grab match.
A rope grab attached upside down to a lifeline Rope grabs are designed to work with
can’t work properly. Instead of locking on the certain types and sizes (in diameters) of
line, it will simply slide down. lifelines. Specifications are usually listed in the
Don’t grab the device if you fall. This can prevent manufacturer’s instructions or on the housing
some grabs from working properly. Instead of of the robe grab.
stopping, you’ll slide to injury or death below. • A vertical lifeline must extend to the ground
or have a positive stop to prevent the rope
Identify controls grab from running off the end of the lifeline.
This positive stop can be a manufactured
Rope grabs are known as fall arresters and must stopping device or a loose knot that does
meet the requirements found in CSA-Z259.2.5: not damage the rope. Remember: only one
Fall Arresters and Vertical Lifelines. person at a time may use a vertical lifeline.

Fall arresters are classified and labelled as follows: • Position the rope grab on a vertical lifeline
as high as possible above your D-ring to
• Automatic fall arresters – These can move minimize free fall distance.
freely along the lifeline according to the
position of a worker. They lock automatically • Make sure you have enough clearance below.
if you fall. Rope grabs may slide down the lifeline as
much as 1 m (3.3 ft) before arresting a fall.
• Manual fall arresters – These are always
locked in position and require action by the • Inspect rope grabs before use. Check for
worker to move it along the lifeline. distortion, rust, sharp edges, and moving
parts that don’t work easily.
Fall arresters were previously classified as AD and
ADP. Class ADP arresters include a panic feature, • A rope grab that arrests a fall should be taken
which keeps the arrester locked on the lifeline, out of service until it can be inspected and
even if you grab hold of it. (The “P” is for “panic.”) recertified for use.

20 Working at Heights
Working at heights—Site-specific training
Explain dangers If you’ve received site-specific WAH training, you
should be able to answer yes to the following
Falling from heights continues to be a leading questions:
cause of injuries and fatalities in the construction Has a hazard assessment been done?
industry. Despite the introduction of standardized
working at heights (WAH) training, too many This will show you where the hazards are and
workers are dying from fall-related injuries. where fall protection is required. Even better,
each site should have a fall protection work plan
The WAH training standard recognizes that (FPWP). It’s important that everyone understands
classroom-based WAH training is only the first and follows the work plan.
step. Knowing the specific fall hazards at the
worksite and putting controls in place to prevent Have controls been put in place to eliminate or
these hazards is the key to staying safe and reduce the likelihood of a fall?
decreasing the number of fall-related incidents. The solutions to any fall-related hazards found
during the hazard assessment should be
This requires site-specific WAH training and included in your FPWP. Solutions could include
written proof by the employer that it has been eliminating the hazard by putting up guardrails
done. or controlling the hazard by finding appropriate
anchor locations and figuring out what type of
Identify controls fall protection equipment is needed.

Has a fall rescue plan been developed?

The employer must ensure that a worker who
may use a fall protection system: Before workers use a fall arrest system on a
project, the employer is legally required to
• Be trained in its use develop written procedures for rescuing someone
whose fall has been arrested. Having a good
• Be given oral and written instructions by a rescue plan in place and making sure everyone
competent person knows what to do in case of an emergency can
• Have met the WAH training requirements. save a life.

– O. Reg. 213/91, s. 26.2 Demonstrate

This means that everyone who works at heights
on a construction project must have approved With your crew, review the site-specific fall
WAH classroom-based training. But they also hazards and the controls that were put in place.
must be made aware of the site-specific fall Make sure everyone understands when fall
hazards they may encounter. This includes getting protection is required and what equipment needs
instruction on the equipment they will be using. to be used.

If a Ministry of Labour (MOL) inspector shows up Review the site’s fall rescue plan and fall
on the site and requests proof of WAH training protection work plan. Make sure they’re posted in
in writing, you must produce it. However, the a conspicuous place at the project and show your
inspector may also ask what instruction and crew where they’re located.
information you received on the site.

NOTE: If your company doesn’t have a fall rescue

plan or fall protection work plan, visit the Fall
Prevention and Working at Heights topic page at
ihsa.ca and download templates you can use to
develop them.

Working at Heights 21
Extension ladders
Explain dangers • Tie off or otherwise secure the top and
bottom of the ladder. Keep areas at the top
Extension ladders can be dangerous tools. and bottom clear of debris, scrap, material,
Workers have been killed and injured from falls and other obstructions.
and powerline contact. • Clean mud, snow, and other slippery
substances off your boots before climbing.
Identify controls • When climbing up or down, always face the
ladder and maintain 3-point contact.
• Choose the right ladder for the job. On • Be very careful when erecting extension
a construction project, it must meet the ladders near live overhead powerlines. Never
requirements of a Grade 1, Grade 1A, or use metal or metal-reinforced ladders near
Grade 1AA ladder under CSA Z11-12: Portable electrical wires or equipment.
Ladders. Also, it must be long enough to:
• Wherever possible, use extension ladders only
– be set up at a safe angle (see image below) for access—not as work platforms.
– extend 90 cm (3 ft) beyond the top • When you must work from a ladder more
landing. than 3 m (10 ft) off the ground, wear a safety
• A two-section extension ladder should be harness and tie off to a well-anchored lifeline
no longer than 15 m (50 ft); a three-section or other support—not to the ladder.
ladder should be no longer than 20 m (66 ft).
• Check the ladder for damage or defects: Demonstrate
– before you set it up
Use an extension ladder to demonstrate the
– after it has been used somewhere else by controls to your crew as you talk.
other workers
– after it has been left somewhere for a long
time.
• Set the ladder on a firm, level base. If the base
is made of soft, loose, or wet material, clear it
away or stand the ladder on a mud sill.
• Never erect extension ladders on boxes, carts,
tables, or other unstable objects. Never stand
them up against flexible or movable surfaces.
• Set the ladder up at a safe angle—one foot
out for every three or four feet up, depending
on length.
• When the ladder is set up, there should be
a clear space of at least 15 cm (6 in) behind
each rung for the front of your foot to fit.
• When the ladder is fully extended, sections
must overlap at least 90 cm (3 ft).
• Stand no higher than the fourth rung from the
top.
• Don’t carry tools, equipment, or material in
your hands while climbing. Use a hoist line or
gin wheel for lifting and lowering.

22 Working at Heights
Stepladders
• Don’t use an unopened stepladder as a
List stepladder locations on site. straight or extension ladder. The feet are not
designed for this use.

___________________________________ • Never stand on the top step, the top, or the

pail shelf of a stepladder.

___________________________________ • When climbing up or down a stepladder,

always face the ladder and maintain 3-point
contact. That means two hands and one foot
___________________________________ or two feet and one hand must be on the
ladder at all times.
• Unless suitable barricades have been erected,
do not set up stepladders in passageways,
doorways, driveways, or other locations where
they can be struck or displaced by people or
Explain dangers vehicles using the access route.

A stepladder is one of the most familiar things on Demonstrate

a jobsite. Still, workers get hurt using them.
Falls are the biggest risk. Even though workers Use a stepladder to demonstrate the controls
are not very high off the ground, some have died to your crew as you talk. Make sure it meets the
from falling a short distance and landing the requirements of a Grade 1, Grade 1A, or Grade 1AA
wrong way. ladder according to CSA Z11-12: Portable Ladders.
Even a sprain or strain could mean pain, delays, Inspect the stepladder in front of your crew.
and time off work. Ask our crew whether another piece of
equipment would provide safer, more efficient
Identify controls means of access.

Here’s how to use a stepladder the correct way.

• Check the ladder for defects or damage:
– at the start of your shift
– after it has been used somewhere else by
other workers
– after it has been left in one place for a
long time.
• Keep the area at the base of the ladder clear.
• Make sure the spreader arms lock securely in
the open position.
• Stand no higher than the second step from
the top.
• Never straddle the space between a
stepladder and another point.
• When standing on the ladder, avoid leaning
forward, backward, or to either side.
• Always open the ladder fully before using it. Stepladder

Working at Heights 23
3-point contact—Ladders
• Don’t carry tools, equipment, or material in
List ladder locations on site. your hands while climbing. Use a tool belt for
small tools and a hoist line or gin wheel for
lifting and lowering larger items.
___________________________________
• Clean mud, snow, and other slippery
substances off your boots before climbing
___________________________________ and make sure that rungs are clear.
• Always hold onto the ladder with at least one
hand. If this is not possible and the work is
3 m (10 ft) or more above the floor, wear a
safety harness and tie the lanyard off to the
Explain dangers structure or to a lifeline.

Climbing a ladder is not as easy as it sounds. Demonstrate

Workers have died from falls after losing their
balance. Most ladder injuries occur when getting
Use a ladder to demonstrate the controls to your
on or off a ladder.
crew as you talk.

Identify controls
• To use ladders safely, always maintain three
points of contact. That means two hands and
one foot or two feet and one hand on the Extend 90 cm
(3 ft) minimum
ladder at all times. Secure top and
• Moving quickly often results in only 2-point bottom
contact. You often have to make a conscious
effort to maintain 3-point contact.
• Break 3-point contact only when you reach
the ground or a stable platform.
• Tie off or secure the top and bottom of the
ladder to prevent movement.
• Put both hands firmly on the rungs before Maintain three
stepping onto a ladder. Carry tools in points of contact
tool belt
• Always face the ladder when you’re climbing
up and down.
• Keep your centre of gravity between the side
Keep rungs and
rails. Don’t lean out on either side. boots clean Keep body
between side rails
• Keep both feet on the ladder when standing
on it. Never straddle the space between a
ladder and another object
• Make sure that the ladder extends at least
90 cm (3 ft) above the top landing.
• Make sure the ladder meets the requirements
of a Grade 1, Grade 1A, or Grade 1AA ladder
according to CSA Z11-12: Portable Ladders.

24 Working at Heights
Scaffolds—Planks and decks
List scaffolds needing inspection on site.

___________________________________

___________________________________

___________________________________

Plank defects

• Plank defects — Worm holes, splits, knots

Explain dangers that are knocked out along edges, and lots of
nail holes. Discard planks when defects are
serious.
Many scaffold injuries involve problems with
planks. If scaffold planks and decks fail, you • Damaged cleats — They should be removed
could be seriously injured or killed from a fall. and replaced.
You could also be thrown off balance and injure
yourself with your tools or equipment. ON LAMINATED VENEER LUMBER PLANKS

If scaffold planks are uncleated or unsecured, • Separation of laminated layers — This is

they can easily slide off. They can also break if usually due to repeated changes in moisture
they are in poor condition or overloaded. levels as layers soak up the rain and then dry
in the sun.
If scaffolds are not fully planked, it can cause
injuries not only during erection and dismantling • Cuts of any kind.
but also during general scaffold use. • Pressure cracks in the top or bottom layer.
• Warping from wear and weather.
Identify controls • Damaged cleats.

Use the proper grades of lumber and inspect ON ALUMINUM/PLYWOOD DECK PANELS
planks before erection to ensure that there are • Cuts in aluminum frames.
no weak areas, deterioration, or cracks.
• Deformed, cracked, or broken fastening hooks
Inspect scaffold planks and deck material and hardware.
regularly. Here’s what to look for:
• Cracked or broken plywood.
ON WOOD PLANKS • Bent, cracked, or broken rungs.
• Length — Planks must overhang the frame no • Sliding or other locking devices in good
less than 150 mm (6 in) and no more than 300 condition.
mm (12 in).
• As a general rule, you should plank or deck
• Cracks — They can often be detected at the the working levels of a scaffold across their
end of the plank. Discard planks with long and full width for maximum support and stability.
deep cracks.
• Cuts — Check plank edges for cuts from saws, Demonstrate
tools, and sharp objects. Discard planks with
many or deep cuts.
Demonstrate methods of inspecting planks and
• Light weight — This can indicate dry rot that panels. Ask the crew to inspect sample materials
can’t be seen. on site.

Working at Heights 25
Scaffolds—Structural components
BRACES
List scaffold locations on site.
• Cross and horizontal braces should not be
cracked, rusty, bent, or otherwise deformed.
___________________________________ • Braces should be compatible with frames and
free of distortion.
___________________________________ • Horizontal braces must be installed every third
frame vertically and in each bay laterally.
• Scaffolds higher than three frames must be
tied into the structure.

GUARDRAILS
• The work platform must have guardrails.
Explain dangers • Guardrails must be compatible with frames.
• Guardrails can be made of tube-and-clamp
If the structural components of a scaffold are components if they’re assembled properly.
damaged, defective, or installed incorrectly, it can
lead to a tip-over or collapse.
Demonstrate
Identify controls As you talk, use a scaffold to demonstrate to your
crew what to look for during an inspection.
Structural components of all frame scaffolds
must be inspected regularly. Inspection should
On aluminum/
include frames, feet, connecting pins, braces, and plywood
guardrails. platform panels,
check hooks
and fasteners
FRAMES Ladder rungs
for looseness,
built into end
cracking, and
• Uprights and cross-members should not be frames are not
distortion.
suitable for
cracked, rusty, bent, or otherwise deformed. tall scaffold
towers (above
• All connecting components should fit together 9 m (30 ft))
square and true.

FEET
• Adjustable base plates should work properly.
• Plates should be securely attached to legs to
resist uplift as well as compression.
• If mudsills are used, base plates must be nailed
to them.

CONNECTING PINS
• Frames must be joined together vertically by
connecting pins compatible with the frames.
• Connecting pins must be locked in place to
prevent them from loosening and coming out.
• Pins must be free of bends and distortion. If
they don’t fit, get replacements that do. Standard Frame Scaffold

26 Working at Heights
Suspended access equipment—Fall protection
Explain dangers A fall arrest system may be your last line of
defence, so make sure it works. Your harness and
Every worker who uses suspended access other fall arrest equipment must have a label
equipment (SAE) must have two independent identifying the CSA standard to which it complies.
means of support. That way, if the suspension Inspect the components of a fall arrest system
system on a swingstage, work cage, or bosun’s before each use.
chair fails, you will still be protected from a fall.
INSPECTION
A fall arrest system can be used as the second
means of support. It prevents a falling worker Check the harness for
from hitting the ground or any object or level • Cuts, burns, and signs of chemical damage
below the work. This can prevent serious injury or
• Loose or broken stitching
death.
• Frayed web material
Identify controls • D-ring and keeper pads showing signs of
distortion, damage, or undue wear
A fall arrest system generally consists of a • Grommets and buckles showing damage,
• Full-body safety harness distortion, and sharp edges.

• Lanyard The lanyard must be securely attached to the

harness D-ring by a locking snaphook to keep it
• Energy absorber from accidentally coming out. On the other end, it
• Rope grab must be attached to the rope grab with a locking
snaphook.
• Lifeline.
The lanyard and energy absorber must be free
The system must be fully rigged, in place, and
of fraying, kinking, and loose or broken threads.
adjusted correctly. It must be properly attached
The hardware should not be deformed, rusty,
to an adequate anchor or fixed support and be
cracked, or unduly worn. All moving parts must
worn in the following situations:
move freely and easily through their full range of
• While setting up and taking down the SAE movement.
and working within 2 metres (6.5 feet) of the
Make sure the rope grab is working, matches
perimeter edge
the type of lifeline you are using, and has no
• While getting on and off the SAE damaged parts or sharp edges that could cut the
• At all times while on the SAE. lifeline.
The lifeline must be free of damage, wear, and
decay. It must be protected from rubbing and
A fall arrest system scraping where it passes over corners or edges.
provides a second
independent means
of support.
Demonstrate
As you talk, do a hands-on inspection of the fall
arrest equipment as indicated above.
Check that workers have taken CPO-approved
working at heights (WAH) training within the
previous three years and have received site-
specific WAH instruction.

Suspended Work Cage with Platform Extensions

Working at Heights 27
Suspended access equipment—Tiebacks
Explain dangers Tiebacks must have the same rated strength as
the primary suspension line. The wire rope used
Suspended access equipment (SAE) can fail if for tiebacks should be at least equal in size to the
you don’t set up all of the components properly, wire rope used for the SAE.
such as tiebacks. Improper setup can lead to Any wire rope used for tiebacks should not be
injury or death from a fall. used for suspension lines afterwards because of
damage and deformation from clips, bends, and
hitches.
Identify controls
Adequate anchorage for tiebacks may include the
Tiebacks are used to secure the outriggers following fixed supports:
and counterweights of SAE. Wire ropes are • The base of large HVAC units
recommended for tiebacks with all suspended
• Columns on intermediate building floors or
access systems.
stub columns on roofs
The tieback holds the major components of the
• Designed tieback systems such as eye bolts
suspension system together. It keeps them from
and rings
being loosened or dislodged and secures them
back to an adequate anchor point. • Large pipe anchorage systems (12-inch
diameter or greater)
Let’s follow a wire rope tieback from start to
finish. • Roof structures such as mechanical rooms
• The tieback runs from the thimble of the • Davit arms/systems
suspension line back along the outrigger • Parapet clamps attached to reinforced
beam with at least one half-hitch on each concrete parapet walls on the other side of
section. the building.
• Then it loops around the counterweight A roof plan or design drawing approved by a
handles and extends back to adequate professional engineer must indicate the proper
anchorage. anchor points for SAE.
Now let’s see how each part is connected.
1. Secure the wire rope tieback to the thimble of Demonstrate
the suspension line with double saddle clips
(also known as J-clips or fist grip clips). Cable Demonstrate as you talk.
clips cannot be used with suspended work
Point out the tiebacks and anchorages used on
platform systems.
site.
2. Make a half-hitch around the beam in front of
the building facade.
3. Make a half-hitch through the handle on each
section of the outrigger beam. Even if the
Counterweights Tieback
beam doesn’t have handles, we still use the
half-hitches.
4. Make a half-hitch in front of the
counterweights.
5. Run the tieback through and then back
around the counterweight handles. Anchorage Half-hitches Thimble

6. Attach the tieback to the anchor with the

recommended number of clips. Make sure the
tieback is taut.

28 Working at Heights
Suspended access equipment—Counterweights
Explain dangers 4. The load required by the counterweights is
determined by dividing the resisting force by
Without the right number of counterweights, the distance on the beam from the centre of
suspended access equipment (SAE) can fail, counterweights to the fulcrum (L).
leading to injury or death. 4,000 ft lb ÷ 16 ft (L) = 250 lb
5. Assuming the counterweights are 55 lb each,
Identify controls here are the number required.
250 lb ÷ 55 lb = 5 counterweights
Here’s how to calculate the number of
Before deciding whether or not to add more
counterweights you need to support the SAE.
counterweights, keep in mind that every
Since we need to build in a safety factor of 4, manufactured steel outrigger beam has a defined
the effect of the counterweights holding the limit to the number of counterweights that can
equipment up must be at least 4 times greater be placed and secured on it. This limit must be
than the load pulling the equipment down. indicated on the beam label.
Another way of saying this is: If labels on an outrigger beam are missing or not
• Multiply the load of the counterweights by readable, do not use the beam.
the distance of the outrigger beam from the Remember—only use counterweights that have
fulcrum to the centre of the counterweights been specifically manufactured for the particular
(L). outrigger beam you are using.
• This number must be at least 4 times greater Counterweights should be securely attached
than the distance of the outrigger beam to the outrigger beam so that the vibration or
from the fulcrum to the suspension point (X) movement of the beam will not dislodge or move
multiplied by the capacity of the SAE. them.
Let’s look at an example:
1. The outrigger beam is 18 ft long. At least 2 ft Demonstrate
of space is required by the counterweights at
one end of the beam (CWL). There is 1 ft of Demonstrate as you talk. Calculate the number of
overhang at the other end of the beam after counterweights required for SAE on the site.
the fulcrum.
18 ft (beam) – 1 ft (centre of CWL) – 1 ft (X)
L = 16 ft
2. The SAE can support a load of 1,000 lb
(LL). The distance from the fulcrum to the
suspension point is 1 ft (X). Multiply these
numbers to get the maximum force that will
be pulling down.
1,000 lb (LL) x 1 ft (X) = 1,000 ft lb
3. The resisting force that is holding up the SAE
must include a safety factor of 4.
1,000 ft lb x 4 (SF) = 4,000 ft lb

Working at Heights 29
Floor and roof openings
Explain dangers
If proper guarding is not in place, workers can be
exposed to falls when working around floor and
roof openings. Avoiding such hazards may seem
like common sense, but a moment of distraction
around an uncovered opening can end in disaster.

Identify controls
Installing guardrails around an opening is the best
solution to prevent falls. In places such as narrow
access routes where guardrails can’t be installed,
protective covers made of planks, plywood, or
steel plates are the next best option.
According to the Construction Projects regulation
(213/91, s. 26.3(2)), protective covers must:
• Completely cover the opening
• Be securely fastened
• Never stand on, walk on, or drive over a
• Be identified as covering an opening protective cover.
• Be made from material that can support any • Tell your supervisor if a protective cover is
load that may be put on it (at least 2.4 kN/m2). loose, not fastened, not properly identified, or
The labels on opening covers need to stand out in poor condition.
on a busy worksite. Use bright paint to create a • Treat skylights like any other roof openings.
warning sign on the cover that says something While it may seem covered, a skylight has
like—DANGER! OPENING—DO NOT REMOVE! DO very little strength. If a worker were to step on
NOT LOAD! it or fall into it, they could fall through. Install
• Always use another means of fall protection temporary guarding around or over each
when installing, removing, or working near an skylight near the work area or use barricades
unprotected opening. to keep workers away from them.
• Always fasten the cover securely to prevent
workers from removing it and falling through Demonstrate
the opening.
• Where permanent covers or hatches are After you talk about floor and roof openings,
installed, they should be kept closed at all take a look around the jobsite. If there is an
times except when they are being used for unprotected roof or floor opening, install a cover
access. and review how this complies with the legislation.
• Where temporary covers are used, they If you can’t install a floor or roof covering, then
should extend enough past the opening to talk about what everyone has seen on previous
provide sufficient strength (e.g., 15 cm (6 in)). jobsites and what types of openings they’ve
• If the cover is made of wood, use full-sized encountered.
No. 1 spruce planks 48 mm x 248 mm (1-7/8 in Has anyone seen an incident involving an
x 9-3/4 in). uncovered opening? How could it have been
• Never store materials on a protective cover. prevented?

30 Working at Heights
Flying forms—Working at heights hazards
Explain dangers
Flying forms can save time and, in some cases,
are safer than using built-in-place methods.
However, flying forms have some significant
hazards that can lead to serious injury if proper
precautions aren’t taken.
One of the main hazards associated with flying
forms is when working at heights. The workers
who receive the forms often work near the edge
of the structure and are usually up high.
Normally, guardrails are in place when workers
are working at heights, but they are often
removed so that workers can receive the forms.
Working near the edge of a building without
guardrails is very dangerous if a travel restraint or
fall arrest system is not used. • A travel restraint system is preferred over a
fall arrest system because it keeps the worker
from reaching the edge. If this is not practical
Identify controls however, then a fall arrest system must be
used.
• Put danger signs and barriers in place before
• If you use a fall arrest system, you must be
moving any forms so that all workers are
attached to an individual anchor point—not to
aware of what’s happening. Dangerous areas
the flying form.
include the work area below the flying form,
the floor area from where the form is pushed • Immediately replace guardrails and shoring
out, and the top floor area where the form will after the form is flown out and while you are
be received. still using a fall protection system.
• Each worker must have a fall protection • Make sure you have enough space to work
system in place before anyone removes the safely and stack materials and components.
guardrails. • Always follow the instructions set out by the
• A travel restraint or fall arrest system must be designer or manufacturer.
used by any worker who • Workers must have received CPO-approved
– Receives a panel from the slab edge working at heights (WAH) training within the
previous three years as well as site-specific
– Gets on or off the form
WAH instruction.
– Installs the panel
– Bolts or unbolts wall forms for exterior Demonstrate
walls and elevator shafts
– Steps on a panel to attach slings to pick Demonstrate how to properly set up a travel
points restraint or fall arrest system.
– Helps other workers attach rigging Review the procedure on how to safely install the
hardware, such as slings flying form.
– Pushes a panel out toward the slab edge.

Working at Heights 31
Formwork—Leading edge
Explain dangers • Mark the transition from completed or “safe”
areas to unprotected leading edge areas with
In the high-rise formwork industry, nearly 23 per clear signs and barriers.
cent of all lost-time injuries are caused by falls. • Check with an engineer if you’re unsure
Most of these injuries result in sprains and tears, about proper anchor points (e.g., how many
fractures, and concussions. dowels of rebar are required). Affix the anchor
A leading edge is the unprotected side and edge securely so that the connector cannot slip or
of a floor, a roof, or formwork. It changes location fall off.
as workers place new formwork in front or to the • Mark the transition from completed or “safe”
side of the piece they previously installed. areas to unprotected leading edge areas with
High-rise formworkers will often be in situations clear signs and barriers.
where fall protection is required. However, when • Keep barriers a minimum of 2 m (6.5 ft)
the edge is constantly moving, it’s more difficult from leading edge operations. Use a sign
to apply standard fall protection controls. to indicate that personal fall protection
equipment is required in the work area.
Identify controls • Instead of a lifeline and rope grab, use a
self-retracting lifeline (SRL). SRLs work by
• Due to the severity of the hazards involved in allowing the lifeline to unspool under slight
high-rise formwork, workers must have tension. Just be aware that when you use
received CPO-approved working at heights SRLs, you will probably be in fall arrest, not
training within the previous three years and be travel restraint. Check the manufacturer’s
made aware of any site-specific fall hazards. instructions to ensure that the SRL can be
In addition, employers must have a fall arrest used horizontally.
rescue plan in place.
• To minimize fall hazards, don’t extend the
• Install guardrails along the edge of all deck out to the end of the bay. Work across
completed decks, allowing enough room for the leading edge, advancing each bay one
installing bulkheads. Remember to install step at a time.
guardrails as the leading edge progresses.
• To minimize the possibility of formwork and
• For work on the leading edge, use an active falsework collapse, always nail the formwork
fall protection system consisting of a full- in as you progress.
body harness with a lanyard combined with
an energy absorber connected to a rope grab • If you’re supplying materials to workers using
and a lifeline secured to an anchorage. fall protection, make sure you’re in a safe area
or protected by using travel restraint or fall
• If possible, arrange your fall protection system arrest.
so that it is in travel restraint. If you can’t
reach the edge, you can’t fall.
Demonstrate
• Use appropriate anchor points. Wrap
connectors or slings around concrete columns Demonstrate proper leading edge installation
or several dowels of rebar or use embedded procedures such as setting up a fall protection
connection points that are specifically system, installing guardrails, and erecting signs
intended for anchorage. NOTE: Wire or metal and barriers.
anchorage slings are more durable than
webbing that can wear and tear over time.

32 Working at Heights
Rigging hardware
STRETCHING
List rigging on site.
Check hooks, shackles, and chain links for signs of
opening up, elongation, and distortion.
___________________________________ STRIPPED THREADS
Inspect turnbuckles, shackles, and cable clips.
___________________________________

Demonstrate
___________________________________
With your crew, inspect rigging hardware in use
or stored on site. Repair or replace any damaged
or defective items you find.
CABLE CLIPS
Explain dangers
• Check for wear on saddle.
Rigging is only as strong as its weakest link. • Check that original parts are in place and in
Workers’ lives depend on the strength of that link. good condition.
It doesn’t matter what safe working load is • Check for cracks.
stamped on a hook if the hook is cracked and • Check for proper size of the wire rope.
twisted or opening up at the throat. It can’t
deliver its full rated capacity. SHACKLES

Inspection is vital in rigging and hoisting. • Check for wear and cracks on saddle and pin.
• Check that pin is straight and properly seated.
Identify controls • Check that legs of shackle are not opening up.
HOOKS
Rigging hardware must have enough capacity
• Check for wear, twisting, and cracks.
for the job. Only load-rated hardware of forged
alloy steel should be used for hoisting. Load-rated • Make sure that hook is not opening up.
hardware is stamped with its working load limit or TURNBUCKLES
WLL.
• Check for cracks and bends.
Adequate capacity is the first thing to look for in
rigging hardware. For hoisting, the design factor • Check rods for straightness and damage to
must be 5 to 1. threads.

Once the right hardware has been chosen for a Check for wear
job, it has to be inspected regularly as long as it’s and deformation
in service.
There are warning signs that hardware has been
weakened in use and should be replaced. Check for cracks
and twisting Check for signs
CRACKS of opening up

Inspect closely—some cracks are very fine.

MISSING PARTS
Make sure that parts such as catches on hooks,
nuts on cable clips, and cotter pins in shackle pins
are still in place. Check for wear
and cracks

Hook Inspection Areas

Rigging and Hoisting 33

Wire rope—Inspection
Explain dangers BIRDCAGING
Look for strands opening up in cage-like clusters.
Damage from wear and tear can reduce rope Rope must be replaced.
strength and capacity, endangering workers who
rely on the rope.

Identify controls
Wire rope in continuous service should be CORE PROTRUSION
checked daily during normal operation and Replace rope when inner core starts poking
inspected weekly. Rope that has not been used through strands.
for a month should be inspected thouroughly.
There are warning signs to look for during
inspection. Most of these warning signs indicate
that the rope should be replaced.
BROKEN WIRES
Occasional wire breaks are normal and not critical
if they are well spaced. Broken wire ends should KINKING
be removed. Replace rope if there are Kinks seriously reduce wire rope strength.
• 6 or more broken wires in one lay Sections with kinks should be cut off. Otherwise
rope must be discarded.
• 3 or more broken wires in one strand in one
lay
• 3 or more broken wires in one lay in standing
ropes.
WORN AND ABRADED WIRES
Replace rope if outer wires HIGH STRANDING AND UNLAYING
• become flat from friction (i.e., D-shaped) These will cause the other strands to become
• become shiny from wear, and overloaded. Replace the rope or renew the end
connection to reset the rope lay.
• wear exceeds 1/3 of the wire’s diameter.
ROPE STRETCH AND DECREASE IN DIAMETER
All ropes stretch slightly and decrease in
diameter. Replace rope if wear on individual wires
exceeds 1/3 of the diameter. Replace 6-strand
rope if stretch exceeds 6 inches per 100 feet.
CORROSION
Difficult to detect because it’s inside the rope. Demonstrate
Look for rust, discolouration, and pitting outside.
CUTS/BURNS Review wire rope in use on site. Ask your crew
Replace rope if any wires or strands are cut or to inspect samples and arrange for repair or
burned. Damaged ends can be removed and replacement as required.
seized. Otherwise rope must be replaced.

34 Rigging and Hoisting

Wire rope—Cable clips
Explain dangers Follow the steps below to install u-bolt clips
correctly:
There’s only one right way to install u-bolt STEP 1: Apply the first cable clip one base width
cable clips when you want to get the maximum from the dead end of the wire rope. The U-part
efficiency—up to 85%—out of a prepared loop or goes over the dead end, while the live end rests
thimble-eye termination. Otherwise the capacity in the clip saddle. Tighten the nuts evenly to the
of the termination can be severely reduced, recommended torque.
risking the lives of workers and others nearby.
Dead end
Because u-bolt clips are often installed
incorrectly, double saddle clips (i.e., J-clip or fist
grip clips) are preferable. Never use u-bolt clips Live end
when working with suspended access equipment.

STEP 2: Apply the second clip as close to the

Identify controls loop as possible. U-part is over the dead end.
Turn nuts firmly but do not tighten.
Remember this when installing u-bolt cable clips:
• Most cable clips have two sections. There’s a
saddle part and a U-shaped part. You need
the right-sized clip for the wire rope diameter.
• You need to know the number of clips
required, the amount of rope to turn back
from the thimble, and the torque needed to STEP 3: Apply all other clips, spaced equally
tighten the nuts. There are tables that spell between the first two. They should be 6-7 rope
out all of this information. (See below.) diameters apart.
• As best practice, use at least three clips
when making any prepared loop or thimble-
eye termination for wire rope, especially for
hoisting.
• All three clips must be installed with the
saddle part on the live end of the rope. This STEP 4: Apply tension and tighten all nuts to
lets the live end rest in the saddle so it’s not recommended torque.
crushed by the U-part of the clip.
• The U-part goes on the dead end of the rope
where crushing will not affect the breaking
strength of the hoist line.
Apply Tension
Rope Turn-
Rope Minimum Torque for
back from
Diameter Number Unlubricated STEP 5: Check nut torque again after the rope has
Thimble
(inches) of Clips Bolts (ft-lb) been in operation.
(inches)
5/16 2 5 1/2 30
3/8 2 6 1/2 45 Demonstrate
7/16 2 7 65
1/2 3 11 1/2 65 Demonstrate how to install cable clips as you
9/16 3 12 95 talk. Review the cable clip table with your crew.
5/8 3 12 95 It shows the number of clips, the amount of
3/4 4 18 130 rope turn-back, and the torque required for the
7/8 4 19 225 specific diameter of wire rope.

Rigging and Hoisting 35

Hoisting signals—Basic rules
Explain dangers • Only one person should signal the operator.
But anyone can give the STOP signal and it
In hoisting operations, miscommunication must be obeyed immediately. [Demonstrate
between the signaller and the operator can lead the STOP hand signal.]
to injuries, fatalities, and property damage.

Identify controls
If you’re going to rig a load, you also need to
know the signals for lifting, moving, and landing
it. The operation may be a simple LIFT and
LOWER. Or it may require more complicated
signals.
On construction sites, signalling is required in the
following situations. STOP Hand Signal
• When the operator cannot see the load.
• When the operator cannot see the landing • Signals should be clear and, wherever
area for the load. possible, barehanded.
• When the operator cannot see the path of • The load should be directed so that it never
travel of either the load or the crane. passes over anyone.
• When the operator is too far from the load to • Operators should not make a move until they
judge distance accurately. receive and understand your signal. If contact
• When the crane or other hoisting device is between you and the operator is broken for
working close to live powerlines or equipment. any reason, the operation must stop.

In many cases, hand signals are the most efficient • Some situations call for two signallers. For
form of communication between riggers and instance, during a concrete pour, one signaller
crane operators. Over the years, a system of may be needed to direct the lift while the
standard hand signals has evolved that is now other directs the drop.
international. • In cases where a difficult lift requires vocal
There is a signal for each action of the crane communication, use two-way radios instead of
from BOOM UP to BOOM DOWN, from TRAVEL hand signals.
FORWARD to STOP. • Ensure adequate lighting and signalling
By using the correct hand signals, you can get arrangements have been made before using
a crane to do almost anything you want. The hand signals during nighttime work.
operator only needs to clearly see and Hand signals have their limitations. For
understand your signals. example, they should never be used when
In our next talk, we’ll run through all of the hand distance, visibility, or noise prevents accurate
signals for hoisting. But first we have to know the communication with the operator.
ground rules for signalling.
• The signaller must be a competent worker, Demonstrate
which means qualified due to knowledge,
experience, and training. Demonstrate the hoisting hand signals on the
next page.
• The signaller must wear high-visibility clothing
and not do any other job while signalling. Hand out IHSA’s Hand Signals for Hoisting
Operations Card (V002).

36 Rigging and Hoisting

Hoisting signals—Demonstration
Demonstrate
Demonstrate the hoisting signals below with your Ask them to practise them so that they become
crew. Ask them to show you the signals for “Load natural. Hand out IHSA’s Hand Signals for
Up,” “Turn Right,” and “Use Main Line.” Hoisting Operations Card (V002).

NO RESPONSE
SHOULD BE
MADE TO
UNCLEAR
SIGNALS

Rigging and Hoisting 37

Gin wheels or pulley wheels
Explain dangers
Using a gin or pulley wheel is a low-cost and
convenient way of raising or lowering a load.
However, these are some risks associated with
using gin or pulley wheels:
• A hoisting rope that does not have a proper
safety hook or knots at the end.
• A hoisting rope that is worn and needs to be
removed from service.
• A load that exceeds the weight capacity of
the components or the ability of workers to
lift it.
• A load is not secured properly
• A bucket or load that strikes the scaffold or
building, causing the load to tip and fall.

Identify controls
• Inspect the hoisting equipment and rope
Proper Set-up of Gin Wheel
before each use. When not in use, store the
rope so that it’s protected from exposure to
rain, snow, and UV radiation from the sun. • Mount the gin wheel on a safe work platform
• Set up the gin wheel according to the that is above the standing arm’s length of the
manufacturer’s instructions. worker who will be receiving the load. The
load itself should be received no higher than
• Make sure the gin wheel and the rope are the worker’s shoulder height.
rated for the load you will be hoisting.
• Restrict loads to one-fifth of your body
• When lifting liquid, cover the bucket so the weight and watch for excessive side loading.
contents don’t spill.
• Workers receiving the load (at heights) must
• Always rope off the area below the gin wheel use proper fall protection.
and never stand directly below the load.
(O.Reg. 213/91, s. 103) • If two or more workers are lifting the load, one
worker should be giving instructions.
• Whenever possible, workers at ground level
should lift the load. When lifting, do not stand
under the load. Demonstrate
• Always use gloves when working with a gin
Ask crew to describe any problems they have had
wheel to prevent rope burn.
with:
• Make sure the rope is the correct diameter for
• Handling a gin wheel
the size of the gin wheel.
• Making the appropriate knots
• Only use a gin wheel with a working safety
catch on the mounting hook to prevent the • Using a gin wheel with missing or damaged
wheel from detaching. parts.
• If proper hooks are not available, use the Refer to Chapter 24: Rigging in IHSA’s Construction Health and
appropriate knots. Safety Manual (M029) for more info on knots and hitches.

38 Rigging and Hoisting

Electrical safety
Explain dangers • Take defective tools out of service.
• Any shock or tingle, no matter how small,
Using electricity on site can be hazardous, means that the tool or equipment needs to be
especially when it comes to tools, cords, and checked and repaired.
panels or generators. • Before drilling, nailing, cutting, or sawing into
walls, ceilings, and floors, check for electrical
Identify controls wires or equipment.

CORDS
Consider all electrical wires and equipment
energized until they are tested and proven • Make sure that tool cords, extension cords,
otherwise. and plugs are in good condition.
Section 182 of the Construction Projects • Use only 3-pronged extension cords.
regulation states that “No worker shall connect, • Make sure that extension cords are the right
maintain or modify electrical equipment or gauge for the job to prevent overheating,
installations unless, voltage drops, and tool burnout. A 12-gauge
a. the worker holds a certificate of qualification extension cord is ideal.
issued under the Ontario College of Trades • Do not use cords that are defective or have
and Apprenticeship Act, 2009, that is not been improperly repaired.
suspended, in the trade of,
• Protect cords from traffic.
i. electrician—construction and maintenance,
or • When outdoors or in wet locations, plug into
a GFCI-protected receptacle or use a portable
ii. electrician—domestic and rural, if the in-line GFCI.
worker is performing work that is limited
to the scope of practice for that trade; OR PANELS OR GENERATORS
b. the worker is otherwise permitted to connect, • Temporary panel boards must be securely
maintain or modify electrical equipment or mounted in a lockable enclosure protected
installations under the Ontario College of from weather and water. The boards must
Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009, or the be accessible to workers and kept clear of
Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000.” obstructions.
A worker who does not meet the requirements of • Receptacles must be GFCI-protected.
(a) or (b) may only insert or remove an • Panels must be installed in accordance with
electrical attachment plug of electrical the Ontario Electrical Safety Code.
equipment to or from a power receptacle.
• Use only generators with a label identifying
TOOLS it as “neutral bonded to frame”. Do not use
• Use only electric tools that have a CSA logo generators with a “floating neutral”.
or equivalent. • Use a portable generator with built-in GFCI
• Make sure the casings of double-insulated receptacles or use a portable in-line GFCI at
tools are not cracked or broken. the generator receptacle.

• Always use a Class A ground fault circuit

interrupter (GFCI) with portable electric Demonstrate
tools operated outdoors or in damp or wet
locations. A GFCI detects current that is Inspect sample tools and cords used on the job.
leaking to the ground from a tool or cord and Point out labels indicating double insulation.
shuts off the power before damage or injury Show your crew a portable in-line GFCI. It can be
can occur. used on all grounded electrical receptacles.

Electricity 39
Lockout and tagging
List hazardous energy sources on site. It’s not always easy to identify every source
of energy. Machines or systems usually
contain several forms of energy. A press may
___________________________________ be hydraulically powered, for instance, but
electrically controlled.
___________________________________ Locking out the hydraulic power is not enough.
Locking out the electricity is not enough. Gravity
___________________________________ can still cause a raised arm to drop. There may
also be potential energy stored in pistons or
springs.
To identify energy sources, you may need to
trace wiring, lines, and piping in and out of the
Explain dangers equipment. Specifications, drawings, operating
manuals, and similar information will also help.
Lockout and tagging ensures that hazardous A lock is your personal lock that can only be
energy sources are under the control of the opened with your key.
workers needing protection.
Once you apply the lock or other restraint device,
Lockout often involves workers using a padlock you have to tag it. The tag must indicate:
to keep a switch in the “off ” position, or to isolate
• Who you are
the energy of moving parts.
• Who you work for
Tagging is how you tell others that the device is
locked out, who locked it out, and why. • Why the machine or system is locked out
Serious and fatal accidents have occurred when • The date when the lock was applied.
people assumed that electricity or machinery was Once each energy source has been locked out
turned off but it wasn’t. Electric shock, sudden and tagged, you must test the equipment to
movement of sharp machine parts, release of verify a zero energy state.
pressure, falling counterweights—these are just
Many plants or industrial establishments will have
some hazards that can result when energy is
specific procedures for lockout and tagging.
unexpectedly released.

Identify controls Know the law

Section 190 of the Construction Projects
There are four basic actions in any lockout. regulations (O. Reg. 213/91) lists the
1. Identify all energy sources connected with the requirements for lockout and tagging.
work.
2. De-energize, disable, redirect, or stop all
energy from doing what it normally does.
Demonstrate
3. Apply restraint devices (e.g., lock, scissors,
chain, or block) to keep the system from Show sample lockout devices and tags. Explain
starting up while you work on it. your project’s lockout procedures.
4. Confirm that you’ve reached a zero energy Identify situations on site where lockout and
state. tagging would be necessary. Review recent
Forms of energy that you must lock out applications of lockout and tagging.
include electrical, mechanical, potential (stored
energy, such as in suspended loads), hydraulic,
pneumatic, thermal, and chemical.

40 Electricity
Powerline contact
List powerline hazards on site. • The signaller must warn drivers and operators
when any part of their equipment or load
approaches the minimum distances set by law.
___________________________________
• When erecting or moving a ladder or scaffold,
don’t let it lean or drift toward overhead
___________________________________ powerlines. Always maintain minimum
allowable clearances.
___________________________________ • To determine powerline voltage, check
markings on the pole or call the utility.
In case of accidental contact with a powerline,
follow these procedures:
• Never touch equipment and the ground at the
Explain dangers same time.
• Get someone to call the local utility to shut off
Powerline contact is a major cause of fatal power.
accidents and critical injuries. • If possible, break contact by driving the
These types of incidents usually involve heavy equipment clear of the powerline. Otherwise
equipment such as backhoes, dump trucks, boom do not leave the equipment until the utility
trucks, cranes, and excavators. shuts down the power or fire forces you to
 eware of contact when moving extension
B jump clear.
ladders, rolling scaffolds, long lengths of pipe, • Keep everyone away from any equipment in
and siding. Also, beware of the powerline moving contact with a powerline.
(i.e., blowing in the wind). • Beware of time relays. Even after breakers
are tripped by line damage, relays may be
Identify controls triggered to restore power.

The constructor must develop written procedures Demonstrate

ahead of time if the equipment or its load could
encroach on the the minimum permitted distance Review the company’s written procedures with
to an overhead powerline. your crew and point out any warning devices and
These procedures must be communicated to signs on the site.
every employer and worker on the project. They Review the minimum permitted distances, which
should include the use of warning devices and are listed in the Construction Projects regulation
signs. and in the table below.
Follow these safe practices when working around
around powerlines:
Minimum Distances to Powerlines
• Don’t store material and equipment below
overhead powerlines. Voltage Rating Minimum Distance
• Obey all warning devices or signs. 750 to 150,000 volts 3 metres (10 feet)
• Use a signaller to direct equipment operators 150,001 to 250,000 volts 4.5 metres (15 feet)
and truck drivers The signaller must be in full More than 250,000 volts 6 metres (20 feet)
view of the operator and have a clear view of
the powerline. Source: O. Reg. 213/91, s. 188

Electricity 41
Temporary lighting
List temporary lighting locations on site. • Use plastic straps or insulated wiring instead
of metal (nails, bare wire, etc.) to secure the
lights.
___________________________________
• Bulbs should be installed so that they light as
large an area as possible.
___________________________________
• Lights must be protected against damage
by accidental contact. Use plastic cages to
___________________________________ protect the bulbs.
• Bulbs lower than 100 watts are not
recommended. However, if bulb wattage is
too high, it may melt the plastic cages.
• Keep branch lighting circuits that feed
Adequate lighting must be provided in areas temporary lighting entirely separate from
where workers are present. Entrance and exit power circuits, except for a common supply.
spaces must also be illuminated. • Protect branch lighting circuits by a breaker
or fuse with a 15-amp rating. An electrician
should connect the circuits directly into a
Explain dangers distribution panel. Make sure lockout/tagging
procedures are followed before connecting
Electricians have been electrocuted while setting the wiring to the panel.
up temporary lighting.
• Use a GFCI when installing lights in wet
Frequent relocation of circuits can loosen locations.
connections, break insulation, and create other
shock or electrocution hazards.
• Don’t use temporary lighting circuits as
extension cords. If a fuse blows, finding
Steel door frames can become electrified when your way to the panel in the dark can be
doors close on wires. dangerous.
Ladders, pipe, scaffold frames, and other objects • Make sure that wires do not contact steel
can bump stringers, leading to electrical contact doors or steel door frames. Ensure that wires
and shock. cannot be pinched or cut by doors.
Dead, missing, or low-wattage bulbs, inadequate
power, and blown fuses can leave stairwells,
basements, and other areas poorly lit or with no Demonstrate
lighting at all, increasing the risk of injury.
With your crew, review the following checklist.
‰ Are work areas well lit?
Identify controls
‰ Are burned-out bulbs promptly replaced?
• Lighting levels should be at least 55 lux (5-ft ‰ Are they replaced with new bulbs or bulbs
candles). That means 150-watt bulbs that are: taken from another location?
– suspended 2.4 m (8 ft) high and 7.5 m (25 ‰ Are stringers promptly relocated when bulbs
ft) apart OR are blocked by the installation of new ceilings,
ducts, piping, and other features?
– suspended 3 m (10 ft) high and 6 m (20
ft) apart. ‰ Are lamp holders hard-usage type?
• Lights should be at least 2.4 m (8 ft) off the ‰ Are electrical feed lines for sockets supported
floor. Do not hang lights by the cord unless every 1.4 m (4 ft, 6 in)?
they are designed that way.

42 Electricity
Underground utilities
List underground utility hazards on site. Once the underground service is located, it’s our
job to uncover it. This must be done by hand
digging. Do not use excavating equipment to find
___________________________________ the service.
If we use a pressurized water/vacuum system to
___________________________________ expose the buried service, we have to check with
the utility first to make sure it’s safe.
___________________________________ In some cases, the utility may supervise our
digging and excavation. This is a requirement
when working with fibreoptic cable.
Once the service has been uncovered and its
location determined at several points along its
length, then excavating equipment can be used.
Explain dangers
Exposed utility pipes, conduit, and cable must be
supported to keep them from falling or breaking.
Buried gas and electrical lines present a serious
When construction contracts don’t specify
risk of injury and death.
the method of support, ask the utility for its
Utility pipes, conduit, and cable may be damaged requirements.
by:
• Digging without locates or with inaccurate Demonstrate
locates
• Careless excavation once the utilities have With your crew, review the information in a locate
been located and marked provided by a utility for an underground service
• Failure to support exposed utilities once they on site. Tell them about Ontario One Call.
have been uncovered. For more information on utility damage
Breaks in buried services threaten not only prevention, go to orcga.com and download a free
workers but also the general public. It can also copy of ORCGA’s Best Practices.
cause considerable property damage.

Identify controls ONE CALL

Contact Ontario One Call (On1Call) to notify
The basic idea is to CALL BEFORE YOU DIG. all utilities with underground services in the
area where we want to dig.
• Ask utilities to locate and mark their
underground services. That includes gas, e-Ticket Locate Requests
water, electrical, cable TV, telephone, and 1-800-400-2255
pipelines.
www.on1call.com
• Utilities generally offer a free service for
locating and marking buried services According to the Ontario Underground
with stakes, flags, or paint. These markers Infrastructure Notification System Act, 2012,
indicate the approximate centre line of the most underground services locates will be
underground service. provided when you contact On1Call. There
are some exceptions, however. Ask On1Call if
• Utilities also provide a diagram of the locate any of these are in your area.
information. Keep records of all your locates
on the job.

Electricity 43
Electrical contact—Roofing
Explain dangers NOTE: If you find electrical services and
there is a risk of contacting them, look
Cutting into existing roofs and mechanically for alternatives to mechanically fastening
fastening insulation are common jobs for roofers. insulation to roof decking.
One of the hazards they face when doing these
jobs is contact with electrical services.
• Always remove the membrane system before
Electrical conduits or cable could be just beneath cutting holes in the roof deck.
the membrane of the roof. They could also be
mounted to the underside surface of the roof • Radio detection is becoming a reliable way to
deck on the inside of the building. check for electrical services. Before fastening
the insulation to the decking or cutting a hole,
The most common danger for roofers when they scan the area using a radio detection device
encounter electrical services is electrocution. and mark areas of concern. This can help
However, there are also dangers associated with reduce the risk of electrical contact.
cutting the deck, such as kickback from the saw
and fire.

Identify controls
• Before cutting into the roof, ask the owner
for information on the location of conduits
or cable. If electrical equipment is installed
closer than 38 mm (1.5 in) from the bottom of
the roof deck, there is a danger of accidental
electrical contact.
• If possible, check the underside of the roof
deck inside the building for conduits and
cable in the spot where you plan to cut.
• If you are working on a concrete roof deck,
x-ray the area before cutting.
Radio Detection Device
• If an electrical service is located close to
where you plan to cut, ask for the power to be
shut off and locked out.
• If the power cannot be shut off and locked Demonstrate
out, ask that a new location be chosen for the
hole. Contact with electricity can seriously Walk around the work area and, if possible, look
injure or even kill you. Don’t cut until you for any services on the underside of the decking.
have received confirmation that the area is Radio detection companies often provide training
clear of all services. on their products. Arrange for worker training if
• Don’t forget that the hazards faced when you plan to use this equipment.
cutting into the roof also exist when securing
(mechanically fastening) insulation to the roof
deck. If possible, check the underside of the
roof deck inside the building for electrical
services. You may need to have two-way
communication with someone watching the
progress from the inside of the building.

44 Electricity
Backing vehicles
Explain dangers
Every year, workers are killed and injured by
backing vehicles and machinery. The main
problem is blind spots around heavy equipment.
If you’re in a blind spot and the operator doesn’t
know you’re there, you could be struck by heavy
equipment.
The hazards increase in congested areas where
vehicles and heavy equipment are backing up all
the time. Noise distracts people and dust makes it
difficult to see and be seen.

Identify controls
Demonstrate
• Always make eye contact with the operator
before approaching vehicles and equipment. Hand out IHSA’s Traffic Control Hand Signals
Wave your hand to get their attention and Card (V006).
wait for a wave back to ensure the operator
Show your crew where the blind spots are on
has seen you.
a truck or piece of heavy equipment on site.
• You can plan a drive-through site to limit the Get them to see things from the operator’s
need for backing up. But on most projects, perspective.
trucks and equipment have to operate in
reverse at some point. That’s when a signaller
is necessary.
• The signaller is another pair of eyes for the
driver. If you’re asked to work as a signaller,
use traffic control hand signals and follow
these tips:
– Wear high-visibility clothing as required
– Stand where the operator can see you at
all times, and where you have a full view of
the intended path of travel. But stay out of
the vehicle’s path.
– Make eye contact with the driver or
operator before you signal or change
position.
– Do not perform any other duties.
Signalling requires your full concentration.
– Know driver and operator blind spots.
NOTE: New technology, such as a system
that reads tags on worker’s vests or hard hats
and sends a signal to warn the operator that
someone is behind them, can be used. But these
systems may not be available on all projects. Operator Blind Spots

Vehicles and Equipment 45

Traffic control—Public roads 1
Explain dangers • Always have a quick escape route ready in
case a driver doesn’t see you or disregards
When construction or utility work affects traffic your signals.
on public roads, there’s a risk both to workers and • The Highway Traffic Act requires all drivers to
to ordinary drivers and passengers. stop or slow down when a TCP displays their
The first priority of a traffic control person (TCP) sign. However, you are not law enforcement.
is to protect workers and the public from accident Report any dangerous motorists to your
and injury. supervisor and keep a pad and paper with
you to jot down licence plate numbers.
• Remember that emergency services (i.e.,
Identify controls ambulance, police, and fire vehicles) has
priority over all other traffic.
Traffic control persons protect workers and the
public by regulating traffic flow. As long as you’re • When two TCPs are working together, you
working as a TCP, you can’t do other work or have should always be able to see each other in
additional duties. order to coordinate your STOP/SLOW signs.
If you can’t see each other, a third TCP should
Public traffic has priority over heavy equipment. be assigned to keep you both in view.
But you’ll have to stop traffic when the job
requires it. Otherwise, keep traffic moving at a • If using a two-way radio to communicate with
normal or reduced speed to avoid tie-ups. another TCP, establish clear voice signals for
each situation and don’t change them. Avoid
With your help, work will go ahead safely and unnecessary chit-chat and test the units
efficiently. I’m going to give you instructions in before your shift.
writing. But let me go over the main points now.
• Remove or cover any traffic control signs
• The most important point is simple: Pay at quitting time or when traffic control is
attention. suspended. Drivers can be confused by signs
• Don’t be distracted by talking to anybody. still in place when no work is going on.
If you have to give directions or instructions NOTE: A traffic control person must never be
to drivers or equipment operators, be clear, used to direct traffic for more than one active
simple, and brief. lane in the same direction, or if the posted speed
• Always face oncoming traffic but don’t stand limit is greater than 90 km/h.
on the travelled portion of the roadway.
• Stay alert to work going on nearby. Don’t get Demonstrate
backed over by your own equipment.
• Stand where you can see and be seen by TCPs must be given oral and written instructions
approaching traffic for at least 150 m and these instructions must be kept at the
(500 ft). project (O. Reg. 213/91, s. 69). Review the written
instructions with your TCPs and show them where
• Stand alone. Don’t let a group gather around they are located.
you.
Give TCPs a copy of IHSA’s
• Stand at your post. Sitting is hazardous pocket-sized Handbook for
because you can’t fully see or be seen by
Construction Traffic Control
drivers.
Persons (B016).
• Adjust where you stand to account for road, Go over the requirements for
weather, and speed conditions. Traffic must
a typical arrangement for a
have room to react to your direction to stop.
two-lane roadway (page 10
of the handbook).

46 Vehicles and Equipment

Traffic control—Public roads 2
Explain dangers • When you show STOP, clearly indicate where
you want traffic to stop. When traffic has
When construction or utility work affects traffic stopped, you may move to a point on the road
on public roads, there’s a risk both to workers and where traffic in that lane can see you.
to ordinary drivers and passengers. • When you show the
The first priority of a traffic control person (TCP) SLOW side, motion
is to protect workers and the public from accident traffic to keep
and injury. moving slowly. Don’t
bring traffic to a
complete halt. When
Identify controls drivers slow down,
use your free hand
In addition to the hard hats and safety boots to signal them to
you’re already wearing, you’re going to need keep moving slowly.
some equipment to do traffic control: • Make sure that the
• A safety vest that meets the requirements of STOP-SLOW sign is
the Construction Projects regulation (213/91, s. clean, undamaged,
69.1) and CSA standard. and meets
• Eye protection—it’s dusty and bright out there height and size
requirements.
• A STOP/SLOW sign that meets requirements
of the construction regs (213/91, s. 68). • If you’re working
along a two-lane road with traffic moving in
If working after dark, TCPs must wear clothing both directions, you’ll have to coordinate your
with retroreflective silver stripes encircling each signals with the TCP on the other side.
arm and leg. It’s also good practice to have
reflective tape on your hard hat, use a flashlight • Where two lanes are reduced to one,
with a red cone attachment, and place flashing make sure you stop traffic in one direction
amber lights ahead of your post. before letting traffic through from the other
direction.
• Coordinate your efforts with nearby traffic
Demonstrate signals to avoid unnecessary delays, tie-ups,
and confusion.
[Using the STOP/SLOW sign, demonstrate the
following as you talk.] • Place the
TRAFFIC
Here’s how to use the STOP/SLOW sign. CONTROL
• When you show PERSON
the STOP side to AHEAD sign
approaching traffic, at a distance
hold up your free that gives
hand like this. motorists
• Hold the sign adequate
firmly in view of warning
oncoming traffic. of your
upcoming
• Give motorists presence.
plenty of warning.
Don’t suddenly
flash STOP when a
driver is too close.

Vehicles and Equipment 47

Dump truck tipovers—Drivers
Explain dangers • Always make sure that trailer and tractor are
aligned before dumping.
Dump trucks have tipped over when their boxes • Dump only on level ground. On slopes, dump
were lifted. The result has been death and injury downhill rather than up—the box doesn’t have
to drivers and nearby workers. to be raised as high.
When the box is raised, the centre of gravity • Take extra care when dumping sticky material
changes and the dump truck becomes unstable. like clay and asphalt. It may stick to one side
Just consider some of the dimensions and forces of the raised box and not to the other. Or it
involved. A dump trailer that is 14 m (46 ft) long may stick in the upper portion, creating a
and is raised at a 45-degree angle will be around top-heavy load. Either condition can lead to
13 m (42 ft) high. That’s a lot of height and weight uneven weight, imbalance, and tipover.
to keep balanced. • Don’t leave a load in the truck overnight. It
Stability can be affected by one or more of these will stick to the box, especially in freezing
factors: temperatures.

• The truck is not on a level surface when • Keep your truck in good condition. Tire
dumping pressures should be equal on each side.
Examine and lubricate pins and bushings
• A large amount of material is stuck in the regularly. Inspect suspension systems and
upper portion of the raised box hoist cylinders. Ensure that the latch on the
• The material does not flow out of the top box works properly.
portion (or one side of the top portion) of the • Stay in the cab during dumping and keep your
box seatbelt on. You’re less likely to be injured in a
• The rear wheels settle unevenly in soft ground rollover. If the truck starts to tip, DON’T TRY
as the load moves to the rear during dumping TO JUMP OUT.
• The wind exerts lateral force on the load. • Always lower the box before moving the
truck. This lowers the centre of gravity and
Stability may also be affected by the mechanical
prevents rocking, swaying, and instability.
condition of the truck:
It also prevents contact with overhead
• Poor rear suspension systems on one side of obstructions and powerlines.
the vehicle
• Keep lift axles down while dumping. Loads
• Uneven tire pressures in rear wheels will be distributed over more bearing surfaces
• Worn or inadequate components of the lifting and the truck will not sink as easily in soft
system such as pins or lifting cylinders. ground.
• Do not dump when parked near people or
Identify controls beside another vehicle. If the truck tips over, it
could injure those nearby or the other driver.
Let’s take a few minutes to review basic operating
procedures. Demonstrate
• At the loading point, make sure that the load
is distributed evenly in the box. the truck. Inspect the boxes on one or two dump trucks.
Be aware of the truck’s capacity and don’t Check that the latch works properly. Point out any
overload it. defects or damage.
• Remember that long boxes tip more easily
than short boxes.
• Avoid dumping in high winds.

48 Vehicles and Equipment

Dump trucks—Workers in vicinity
Explain dangers • If possible, break contact by driving the
equipment clear of the powerline. Otherwise
Dump trucks have tipped over when their boxes do not leave the equipment until the utility
were lifted. The result has been death and injury shuts down the power or unless a fire hazard
to drivers and nearby workers. forces you to jump clear.

Dump trucks with their boxes raised have come • Keep everyone away from any equipment in
into contact with overhead wires and powerlines, contact with a powerline.
causing electrocutions. • Beware of time relays. Even after breakers
Workers have been struck by dump trucks that are tripped by line damage, relays may be
were moving around or backing up on a site. triggered to restore power.

Workers have been crushed beneath the load of

dump trucks during dumping. Demonstrate
Deliver this talk where truck operations are visible
Identify controls at a safe distance. Show your crew where the
blind spots are located on a dump truck, which
• Those who work around moving vehicles are the black areas in the drawing below. Show
such as dump trucks must wear high-visibility them the danger area for dump truck tipovers,
clothing. Make sure it’s in good condition and which is the grey area in the drawing below.
can be seen from all sides.
• When approaching a dump truck, make eye
contact with the driver to make them aware
of your presence. Wave your hand to get their
attention and wait for a wave back to ensure
the driver has seen you.
• When a truck is dumping, stay out of the
danger area (see image). In this way, you will
be safe if the truck tips over. Setting up a
barricade can help keep workers out of the
danger area during dumping.
• Only the signaller should be at the sides or
the rear of the dump truck during operation
and dumping. The signaller should be close
enough to give adequate directions to the
driver, yet far enough away to avoid injury if
the truck tips over or the load spills out. The
signaller should check with the driver about
the hand signals that will be used.
• Watch for overhead wires. Use a signaller to
warn drivers if any part of their equipment or
load approaches the minimum distances to
powerlines in the regulations (O. Reg. 213/91,
s. 188).
In case of accidental contact with a powerline:
• Never touch equipment and the ground at the
same time.
Danger Areas Around Dump Trucks
• Call the local utility to shut off power.

Vehicles and Equipment 49

Securing loads
Explain dangers To prevent injuries, follow proper work practices
to secure loads.
If a load isn’t properly secured on your vehicle, • Workers and independent operators should
it can severely injure you during loading and be trained to recognize the danger to
unloading. themselves and the public from materials
Risk factors for operators when securing loads becoming dislodged.
include the following: • All loads must be secured to comply with
• Overexertion injuries Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act (s. 111) and the
National Safety Code Cargo Securement
• Being struck by parts of the load Standard.
• Slips and falls—either when working at heights • Workers should wear comfortable boots with
or from the ground due to ice, snow, and rain. anti-slip resistance.
Here are two examples of actual workplace • When placing straps over loads, tie a rope
incidents: with a ball to the end of the strap. Make sure
1. Strapping loads – A flatbed driver was that no one is near the other side of the
strapping a load of steel from the side of a trailer. If someone is helping you on the other
flat-bed truck. While pulling and turning the side, tell them to stand far back. Then, throw
strap wheel, the driver felt a sudden pain in the ball over the load and pull the strap over
his right shoulder—a musculoskeletal injury. on the other side.
This injury required therapy and days off work. • Use telescoping tools to help you pull straps
2. Unstrapping loads – A worker was killed by down from the top of the load.
a falling pipe when unloading a transport • Use a power strap winder or drill-attached
trailer. The worker was in the process of strap winder to save your wrist from repetitive
unstrapping the load when three high-density strain and forceful exertion.
polyethylene pipes, weighing about 500 kg
each, rolled off the top tier. Although the • Consider installing geared or powered
pipes were resting on dunnage, it failed to winches.
secure the load once the strap was removed. • Use a properly designed winch bar. When
If a load isn’t properly secured, it can cause major tightening or loosening winches, always
problems during transportation. Studies have maintain a firm grip on the winch bar. Never
found that up to 25% of unsafe highway incidents release a winch bar without checking the pawl
were caused by cargo not secured properly on to ensure that it is fully engaged between the
trucks and vehicles. ratchet teeth. Releasing a winch bar without
the pawl being properly engaged can cause
serious injury to the user or bystanders. Never
Identify controls use cheater bars with the winch bars.
• Loading and unloading may also involve
There are many methods and materials available equipment such as lift trucks or cranes.
to secure loads and cargo on vehicles and Drivers should not operate this equipment
intermodal containers. These methods can unless they are competent to do so based on
include: their training, experience, and knowledge of
• Strapping (steel, polyester, nylon, and occupational health and safety legislation.
polypropylene)
• Fasteners (nails and bolts) Demonstrate
• Dunnage
Ask the crew to describe any problems they have
• Lashing (ropes, cables, wires, and chains). had with securing loads.

50 Vehicles and Equipment

Tarping loads
• Use small, light tarps instead of large, heavy
A flatbed driver was covering a load of steel ones. It takes less physical exertion to cover
with a large tarp. While pulling hard on the a load with three small tarps than with two
tarp to unfold it, he felt a sudden pain in his large ones.
right shoulder. This injury resulted in extensive
therapy and several days off work. • Learn proper tarping techniques such as
where to place and unfold the tarp, how
to tuck in the folds, where to connect the
bungee cords, etc.
Explain dangers • Use a detachable ladder with handles or fold-
out steps to get on and off trailers.
Covering a load with tarps and removing them • Maintain 3-point contact when getting on and
afterwards can be hard work for flatbed truck off trailers.
drivers. • Climb on and off the flatbed from the back of
A tarp can weigh up to 100 pounds and be the trailer or the catwalk. Don’t jump down.
difficult to handle, especially if the load you’re • When weather conditions are windy, park the
covering is bulky or uneven or if the weather is flatbed close to a building to block the wind
windy, wet, or icy. and prevent the tarps from blowing around as
Tarping a load manually can put a driver at risk of much.
the following priority hazards: • Stand with your legs spread apart for balance
• Falling from heights while climbing on top of before pulling the tarp.
the load • Get a firm grip on the tarp. Do not just hold
• Slipping or tripping on the tarp or straps the ropes—they can slip or break.
• Developing a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) • Use both hands to pull the tarp in order to
in the back, neck, shoulders, muscles, or joints prevent overexertion.
from lifting and pulling, bending and reaching, • Keep your hands close to your body at about
overexertion, and working in awkward waist height to prevent overreaching.
positions.
• Wear non-slip gloves to maintain your grip.

Identify controls • Wear footwear that is appropriate for the

weather conditions.
• If possible, do not climb on top of the load
to spread the tarp manually. Instead, use Demonstrate
equipment such as:
– An overhead tarping system that lifts and Demonstrate the proper tarping techniques with
the crew.
spreads the tarp manually over the load
Ask them to describe any problems they have
– A forklift that places the tarp on top of the had with tarping loads.
load.
• If you have to climb on top of the load to
spread the tarp manually, never stand up or
walk around. Crawl on your hands and knees
instead. If possible, use a fall arrest system in a
dedicated tarping area.
• Get help from other workers and plan the lift
together.

Vehicles and Equipment 51

Lift trucks in the warehouse
Explain dangers • When backing up, always look in the direction
that you are travelling. Watch for people,
Many workers have been injured by lift trucks in equipment, or anything else in your path of
situations like the following. travel.

• A lift truck was unintentionally driven off a • Secure the load properly to prevent it from
loading dock. falling onto equipment or pedestrians.

• A lift truck fell between the dock and an • When you are stacking something on high
unsecured trailer. shelves, make sure the lift truck can stack
at the proper heights and can manoeuvre
• A worker was struck by a lift truck when it through aisles without becoming unstable.
was backing up or when the worker could not
be seen by the operator. • Review the manufacturer’s instructions and
keep the manual with the equipment for quick
• A lift truck tipped over and crushed the reference.
operator or a nearby worker.
• Learn the maximum rated capacity for the lift
• The load on a lift truck fell off the forks truck and never exceed it.
because it was not loaded or secured
properly. • Only operate equipment that you are
authorized to use and only use the equipment
• The operator did not keep their hands and for its intended purposes.
feet inside the cab.
• The operator slipped and fell when getting in Demonstrate
or out of the cab.
Many incidents also involve property damage Show your crew the capacity plate for the lift
including damage to overhead sprinklers, racking, truck they will be using (or use the sample
pipes, walls, and machinery. plate below). Ask the crew to show that they
Most injuries and property damage are caused by understand the load chart by answering these
questions:
• Lack of safe operating procedures
• What is the maximum fork height?
• Lack of safety rule enforcement
• How much weight can be lifted to that height?
• Insufficient or inadequate training.
Ask lift truck operators if they can remember the
speed limits and warning signs at your facility.
Identify controls Ask them to show that they understand all the
warnings and precautions for the type of lift truck
• Always wear suitable clothing and safety they will be allowed to use.
shoes or boots when working in a warehouse.
• Always fasten your seatbelt when driving a lift
truck.
• Always use 3-point contact when getting in
and out of the cab.
• Take off any jewellery, and keep long hair tied
back to prevent it from being caught in
machinery or equipment.
• Watch out for other workers and vehicles,
especially near doorways and at the ends
of aisles. Don’t be afraid to use your horn.
It’s better to make too much noise than not
enough.

52 Vehicles and Equipment

Slip and fall hazards for truck drivers
Explain dangers Most falls from trucks are
caused by driver error and
Over a five-year period, slips and falls were the failure to follow the 3-point
cause of nearly 50% of all critical injuries in the contact rule.
trucking industry. When mounting and
Pay special attention when working on the dismounting:
following surfaces: • Maintain 3-point contact
• Ramps and gang planks without skid-resistant while getting onto or
or slip-resistant surfaces off of the equipment
until you reach the
• Metal surfaces such as dock boards and dock ground, cab, or a stable
plates, platforms, and construction plates or platform. This means
covers on sidewalks and roads one hand and two feet
• Metal rungs, steps, footholds, treads, running or two hands and one
boards, and platforms on equipment and foot must be on the
ladders. equipment at all times.
Remember: metal is slippery because of its lower • Do not jump down when
force of friction and traction. Metal surfaces getting off the bed of
such as running boards can become smooth and a truck or other part
slippery with wear and extremely slick when wet, of the equipment. Step
muddy, oily, dirty, or greasy. down carefully while
facing the equipment.
Identify controls To prevent slips and trips:
• Wear shoes with good support—not sandals,
When working around flatbed trucks: bare feet or high heels.
• Clean footwear of mud, snow, ice, grease, or • Exit and enter facing the cab.
other slippery substances. • Slow down and use extra caution in bad
• Make sure running boards, treads, steps, weather.
footholds, and platforms are clean and dry. • Get a firm grip on rails and handles with your
• Always face equipment when mounting and hands.
dismounting. • Look for obstacles on the ground before
• Have a secure grip on the handhold before exiting.
stepping up. • Don’t rush to climb out after a long run.
• Place your foot firmly on the step or foothold Descend slowly to avoid pulling a muscle.
so that it’s in front of your heel, under the arc • Don’t ever jump out. You may land off balance
of your foot or on an uneven surface and fall.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and • Don’t use tires or wheel hubs as a step
any obstacles around you. surface.
• Don’t climb down with something in your free • Don’t use unauthorized handholds such as
hand. Put it on the floor of the vehicle and door frames or door edges.
reach for it when you get down to the ground.

Demonstrate
Demonstrate 3-point contact to your crew by
properly mounting and dismounting a vehicle.

Vehicles and Equipment 53

Defensive driving—Highway traffic
Explain dangers • Be aware of your surroundings. Check your
mirrors frequently and scan conditions 20
Not everyone drives well. Some people speed to 30 seconds ahead of you. Keep an eye on
aggressively. Others wander into another lane pedestrians, bicyclists, and pets along the
because they aren’t paying attention or they’re road.
multi-tasking (e.g., talking on the phone, texting, • Follow the two-second rule. Since the
checking messages, or eating). greatest chance of a collision is in front of
Aggressive drivers can cause road hazards to you, establish and maintain a safe following
themselves and others who are sharing the roads. distance that provides enough time for
Drivers may follow too closely, make sudden turns you to brake to a stop if necessary. The
without signalling, or weave in and out of traffic. recommended Time Interval Following
Distance is 1 second for every 3 metres of
The length, width, and weight of large trucks can vehicle length. For a typical 6-metre car, that
create hazards for drivers of both small and large would be 2 seconds.
vehicles. However, many fatal collisions between
cars and trucks are caused by the car driver’s • Keep your speed down. Posted speed limits
error. are meant for ideal driving conditions. It’s
your responsibility to ensure that your speed
matches the actual conditions.
Identify controls • Eliminate distractions. A distraction is any
activity that diverts your attention away from
Follow these tips to make the highways—and your the task of driving. Driving deserves your full
next drive—a lot safer. attention. Stay focused on the driving task.
• Consider stopping distances. Trucks need
a much longer braking distance than cars.
Don’t cut in front of a truck. If you do that, it
Demonstrate
reduces the truck’s braking distance and limits
the evasive action a truck driver can take. Ask the crew to describe ways of keeping a two-
second distance between two vehicles (e.g., pick
• Pass carefully. When passing a truck, do not a marker—road sign, or stationary object—and
drive alongside it for too long. Pass as quickly count the seconds after the vehicle in front of
and safely as possible, and don’t cut too you passes it. Two seconds should elapse by the
closely in front of a truck when re-entering time you pass the same marker).
the lane.
If you have access to a vehicle that workers
• Drive defensively. Do not assume another are expected to drive, show the blind spots
driver is going to move out of the way or and demonstrate how to adjust the position of
allow you to merge. Expect that drivers may mirrors to maximize viewing.
run through red lights or stop signs and be
prepared to react. Be considerate of others Demonstrate typical stopping distances for small
but look out for yourself. Have an escape and large vehicles at various speeds (see table
route planned. below).

• Maintain an optimal position. In all driving Vehicle Speed Stopping Distance

situations, the best way to avoid potential
danger is to position your vehicle where you 30 km/h 19.5 m (64 ft)
have the best chance of seeing and being Car 60 km/h 53 m (174 ft)
seen. 90 km/h 100.5 m (330 ft)
30 km/h 27.5 m (90 ft)
Transport
60 km/h 85 m (279 ft)
Truck
90 km/h 172.5 m (566 ft)

54 Vehicles and Equipment

Work-related driving
Explain dangers • Follow safe storage practices. Documents,
bags, tools, and other equipment or materials
Work-related driving is defined as “driving should be stored properly and restrained in
activities undertaken by staff in the course of case of sudden braking or a collision. Make
their work.” If workers drive as part of their work, sure there’s enough trunk space to hold your
employers have the same duty to protect them material. Install storage equipment inside the
from this hazard as from any other workplace vehicle if necessary.
hazard. This applies even if workers are using • Try not to drive in bad weather or at night.
their own vehicles. If you must do so, adjust your driving to
In Ontario, motor vehicle incidents (MVIs) are account for the weather (fog, rain, snow, etc.)
one of the leading causes of workplace injuries or darkness.
and fatalities. To protect workers from hazards • Turn the engine off and make sure the vehicle
related to MVIs, employers should have a safe- can’t move before you get in or out.
driving policy and program for their company and • If your work vehicle is equipped with an
communicate it to all workers. emergency kit, check it regularly and make
sure you know how to use it.
Identify controls • Do not use a cell phone or start doing work
activities until you have turned off the engine
• Follow the health and safety procedures in and parked the vehicle in a safe place where it
your company’s safe driving policy. can’t move, and until all workers are either at
• Make sure you have a valid driver’s licence a safe distance from the vehicle or inside it.
that is appropriate for the class of vehicle you • Let your employer know if the work you’re
will drive. doing or your schedule prevents you from
• Check to make sure that any vehicle you obeying the speed limit or the hours of
drive is properly insured and in good working service regulations.
condition. All vehicles should be inspected,
serviced, and maintained regularly. Demonstrate
• Do a “circle check” around the vehicle each
time before you get in. This may help you Review the company’s policy on safe driving with
identify a problem before you get on the road. your crew. If your company doesn’t have one,
• Seatbelts save lives. Buckle up any time recommend to management that they develop
you operate a vehicle or a piece of mobile one.
equipment. If it has a seatbelt, you are legally Ask workers if they have any concerns about
required to use it. driving as part of their job. Ask if they have
• Check to see if there are other workers or received training in defensive driving. Discuss
equipment around the vehicle before starting what they learned in the course.
the engine or putting the vehicle in motion. All workers should know how to drive defensively.
• Use a signaller when your intended path of If they have not been trained, register them for
travel is not clear or when you have to back IHSA’s Defensive Driving course.
up at a busy worksite. Give your crew IHSA’s
• Do not drive if you feel physically or mentally Circle Your Vehicle sticker
unable to do so. Take a rest break or tell your or window decal to remind
employer you can’t drive safely. them to do a circle check
before they get in a
• Adjust the seats, steering wheel, mirrors, etc. vehicle.
so that they fit your size and your driving
needs.

Vehicles and Equipment 55

Tire explosions (Pyrolysis)
Explain dangers Identify controls
When a rubber tire becomes overheated, a • Avoid using a heat source on tires if possible.
chemical reaction in the rubber called pyrolysis If a heat source must be used, deflate
can occur. Pyrolysis causes the rubber to and unseat the tire from the rim or prop
deteriorate. At a certain point, this deterioration the tire seating open with a metal object
can create a very rapid pressure increase inside such as a tire iron before doing the repair.
the tire that can lead to a sudden and unexpected Once completed, let the tire cool to normal
explosion. temperatures and inspect the tire internally
Pyrolysis can occur when heat is applied to a tire, for deterioration before reseating.
such as when heating lug nuts using a blow torch. • If a tire has been heated and there is concern
Other heat sources include the following: pyrolysis could be occurring, it’s safer to
assume it’s actually happening and take
• Overheated brakes precautions. Isolate the tire for 24 hours and
• Aerosol tire inflators keep people 200 m (650 ft) away from the
potential explosion area. After the 24-hour
• Welding on or near the tire
isolation period has ended, remove the tire
• Contact with electricity (e.g., from overhead from the rim and inspect it for deterioration
powerlines or lightning). or physical damage.
Once this chemical reaction starts, it can continue • If you suspect pyrolysis may have started
on its own even after the heat source is removed. in a vehicle from overheated brakes, fire, or
Pyrolysis can last seconds or hours. There are electrical contact, isolate the vehicle from
no visible signs when it’s taking place until the passersby and emergency personnel.
explosion occurs.
• Use tire inflation safety cages where practical.
Pyrolysis can occur in temperatures as low as Note that some safety cages will not protect
185°C and does not require oxygen. Nitrogen- you from smaller projectiles.
filled tires are also at risk.
• Re-inflate heavy truck tires remotely using
The pressure inside the tire can increase to over a clip-on air chuck. Keep at least 3 m (10 ft)
7,000 kPa (1,000 psi) before an explosion occurs. away, even if the tires are in safety cages.
Anyone standing near the explosion is at risk of
• When inflating a tire, it is safer to face the
serious injury or even death.
tread than the rim.
A tire can explode even if it’s not sealed on the
• Maintain tires and brakes in accordance with
rim. During the final seconds of the reaction,
the manufacturer’s instructions and operating
there is a rapid burst of energy that can even
manual. Do not drive long distances with
re-seal loose tires.
underinflated tires.
Extra caution is needed when working around
heavy-duty truck tires. The pressure can build
up to higher levels than in tires for passenger Demonstrate
vehicles, resulting in a larger explosion.
Ask workers if they have been in a situation
where pyrolysis could have occurred.

Identify any current work practices that could

cause tire pyrolysis at your workplace and
discuss ways to reduce this hazard.

56 Vehicles and Equipment

3-point contact—Vehicles and equipment
Explain dangers Demonstrate
Getting on and off equipment is not as easy as Demonstrate 3-point contact by mounting and
it sounds. More than one-quarter of all injuries dismounting from a truck, bulldozer, or other
to equipment operators and truck drivers occur piece of heavy equipment on site.
during mounting and dismounting.
Ask your crew to try out 3-point contact as well.
Identify controls
To climb on and off construction equipment
safely, always maintain three points of contact.
That means two hands and one foot or two feet
and one hand on the equipment at all times.
Three-point contact forms a triangle of anchor
points that changes in form while you mount or
dismount. You have the most stability when the
centre of this triangle is close to your centre of
gravity.
Your weight should be evenly distributed among
the three contact points. This means that you
should avoid sideways movement because it can
put you off balance.
• Take your time and always face the vehicle or
equipment when mounting and dismounting.
• Climb on and off only when the equipment is
standing still.
• Break 3-point contact only when you reach
the ground, the cab, or a stable platform.
• Use the parts designed by the manufacturer
for mounting and dismounting—steps,
footholds, running boards, traction strips,
handgrips, etc.
• Keep these parts clear of mud, snow, grease,
and other hazards that can cause slips, trips,
or falls.
• Take extra care in wet, snowy, icy, or other
dangerous weather conditions.
• Don’t use wheel hubs, machine tracks, or door
handles for mounting and dismounting.
• Avoid wearing loose or torn clothing that can
catch on something.
• Don’t jump down when exiting the vehicle.

Vehicles and Equipment 57

Skid steers
Explain dangers KNOW YOUR SURROUNDINGS
• Use barriers or another method to cordon off
Skid steers are incredibly versatile and highly your work area. That way, you won’t have to
manoeuvrable, but they can also be very worry about hitting people in the area.
dangerous. Proper precautions must be taken to • If you have to work near other people, make
prevent a serious injury or a fatality. sure you know where the blind spots are on
Skid steer operators need to be aware of the a skid steer. Make eye contact with anyone
hazards that they face and the hazards that they entering the work area, and turn off the
can cause for workers around them. machine if you need to have a conversation.
• Falls from working around leading edges • Never lift, swing, or otherwise move a load over
• Rollovers from instability and overloading anyone.
• Striking workers, pedestrians, or hidden • Watch out for uneven floors or for objects
obstacles buried in the ground. If the machine hits them,
it may stop suddenly.
• Being struck by loader arms, attachments, or
falling materials • If working on an elevated floor, make sure the
• Slips and trips floor can support the weight of the machine.

• Exposure to fumes, noise, and vibration. • If working on an elevated slab, ensure bumpers
or barriers are installed in front of all openings.
Identify controls • If working near a trench, always stay a safe
distance from the edge.
KNOW YOUR MACHINE KNOW THE SAFE OPERATING PROCEDURES
• Get the proper training and review the user • Adjust your speed to suit the working
manual before operating a skid steer. conditions and terrain. Avoid sudden stops,
• Perform regular safety checks and document starts, and turns.
your findings. • Go around obstacles, not over or through them.
• Check all high-pressure hydraulics for leaks. • Keep the bucket as low as possible when
• Find the rated operation capacity (ROC) for travelling or turning. A skid steer becomes less
the machine and never exceed it. Overloading stable the higher you raise the loader arms.
can make a skid steer excessively front-heavy. • Never use a skid steer as a work platform or for
This can cause instability and reduce handling carrying workers—it’s against the law.
response.
• Never try to operate the steering levers or any
• Never remove the rollover protective structure other hydraulic controls while standing outside
(ROPS) from a skid steer and keep side the cab. Because of the hydrostatic drive, the
screens in place. People have been crushed skid steer will respond instantly when the levers
to death when they were caught between are engaged.
the loader arms and the skid steer frame on
unscreened machines.
• Make sure that the attachment locking
devices are engaged, even if you are switching
• Always use the seat belt and/or the seat bar. attachments for only a few minutes. If an
• When getting out of the machine, always turn attachment is not locked, it could break free
it off first and lower the bucket or attachment. and roll back down the loader arms.
• Always turn your machine off before changing • Use hearing protection when operating it.
attachments.
• Make sure any attachments you use are Demonstrate
rated for your machine. Remember that an
attachment will reduce your load capacity. Review the operating manual with your crew.

58 Vehicles and Equipment

Safe setup of heavy equipment
Explain dangers 3. To ensure the stability of the concrete
pump or boom truck, the ground where
The use of concrete pumps and boom trucks is the equipment is set up has to be level
common on most residential sites. In addition to and compacted. Refer to CSA Z151-09—
increased productivity, there are ergonomic and Concrete Pumps and Placing Booms and the
safety-related benefits. manufacturer’s instructions.

However, if the site is not set up properly, 4. To prevent the boom from contacting
concrete pumps and boom trucks can be overhead powerlines, follow these procedures:
dangerous for the equipment operator as well as • Establish written procedures to ensure
for other workers nearby. that equipment or loads do not encroach
1. The concrete pump, concrete delivery on minimum distances to powerlines.
truck, or boom truck may block the path of • Provide adequate devices that are visible
emergency vehicles. to the operator to warn of electrical
2. Workers may be injured by concrete delivery hazards.
trucks that are backing up. • Station a signaller in full view of the
3. The pump or truck may tip over. operator to warn them each time the
equipment may approach the minimum
4. The boom may come in contact with a distance.
powerline.
NOTE: Refer to sections 188 and 189 of the
Regulation for Construction Projects (213/91).
Identify controls
Proper site planning can prevent many of these
Demonstrate
problems.
Review the site plan and staging areas with those
1. The Occupational Health and Safety Act involved. This will ensure that concrete pumps
requires every project to have written and boom trucks will be set up correctly.
procedures to follow in case of an emergency. Hand out IHSA’s pocket-sized Traffic Control
If part of the site is blocked off, emergency Hand Signals Card (V006) and Ready-mix
vehicles and personnel may not be able to Driver and Concrete Pumping Hand Signals Card
reach injured workers. (V007).
Make a proper staging area by grading
driveways or other areas off the road. That
will give concrete pumps, boom trucks, and
other heavy equipment enough space to set
up properly off the road so they won’t block
traffic.
2. Concrete delivery trucks need to back up
to fill the pump hopper. Always have a
designated signaller in place to keep anyone
from being hit by a reversing vehicle.
Regulations require that a signaller wear high-
visibility clothing and use pre-arranged hand
signals to communicate with the operator (O.
Reg. 213/91, s.104 and 106).

Example of Proper Site Setup

Vehicles and Equipment 59

Working around conveyors and stackers
After only his fourth day on the job, a Identify controls
groundsperson working at a gravel pit was
killed when he became caught between the • Always follow company rules when working
tail pulley of the conveyor system and the around conveyors.
frame of the cone crusher. Although an access • Never bypass guards or skip lockout
guard door was in place to protect contact procedures.
with pulleys, a space was excavated under this
guard door so workers could crawl beneath
• Always follow the lockout procedures when
materials jam or cause blockage, or when
it. It was routine for workers to adjust the
doing repairs or maintenance on the belt.
belt’s position while the system was running—
even though the manufacturer’s instructions • Never use a tool to dislodge materials from an
required that the system be shut down first. energized conveyor.
• Follow the company’s safe procedures when
lubricating conveyors and dressing belts.
Explain dangers • Never remove or alter emergency stops,
interlocks, or guards. It is against the law.
Many pits and quarries have installed some type
of conveyor system. A conveyor system can carry • In an emergency, use the pull cord or e-stop
a lot of material and requires a lot of energy to do to shut down the conveyor. Do not use pull
this. If this energy is directed incorrectly, it could cords or e-stops for normal shutdowns.
seriously injure workers. • Keep the areas around the conveyor systems
Conveyors are the most common cause of tidy. Tools, rocks, and rubbish can cause trips,
serious injuries and safety violations in the fires, or conveyor damage.
aggregates industry. Most occur during cleaning • Never climb, ride, or step over operating
or maintenance of the conveyor when guards, pull conveyors. Use protected passageways and
cords, emergency stops, or interlocking systems designated travel ways.
are bypassed. Injuries that could result from • Avoid wearing loose-fitting clothing and tie
working around conveyor systems include back long hair to prevent entanglement.
• Crushing and pinching • Ensure you are familiar with the sound of the
• Entanglement start-up alarm.
• Friction burns • Always obey signs.
• Shearing or cutting
• Being dragged into the conveyor Demonstrate
• Being struck by falling or moving material.
Review section 196 of Regulation 854: Mines and
Hazardous areas around a conveyor that could Mining Plants with your crew.
cause injury include
Show workers where they can find more
• Rotating drums information about the company’s rules for
• Any place where idlers and the conveyor skirt working around conveyors.
meet Show the workers where emergency stop
• Belt drive mechanisms are located along the conveyor.
• The skirt or scraper
• Belt take-up or tensioning devices
• Exposed drive shafts
• Moving loads.

60 Vehicles and Equipment

Working around stockpiles
A worker was breaking down frozen gravel on
the surface of a stockpile with an excavator.
A large amount of gravel suddenly broke free
and hit the side of the excavator’s boom and
cab, injuring the worker’s foot. The company
was fined $65,000 for failing to remove frozen
material from the stockpile.
WHEN LOADING
• Never enter an active loading area.
Explain dangers • Never leave the cab of your vehicle while
loading is in progress.
Every year, workers are injured or killed when
working on or around stockpiles of earth, clay,
• For a linear stockpile, excavation must
proceed along the working face. For a conical
sand, or gravel.
stockpile, it must proceed around the toe.
Often the victim is the driver of a haul truck,
loader, or bulldozer, but occasionally it can be a
• If you are removing earth, clay, sand, or gravel
with powered equipment, the working face
pedestrian or the driver of a highway truck, utility
should be sloped at the angle of repose, or
truck, or scraper.
the vertical height of the working face should
Be aware of the following hazards: not be more than 1.5 m (5 ft) above the
• When material is being removed from a maximum reach of the equipment.
stockpile, the slope could collapse or large • If the stockpile is too high, some material
frozen chunks of material could fall off and should be bumped over the crest by means of
severely injure the operators. a bulldozer or long-arm backhoe and buffer
• When work is being done at the top of a material. The area below should be cleared.
stockpile, the equipment can weaken the • Never undercut the working face or leave a
crest of the pile. Drivers have died when their hollow in it.
equipment tipped over and rolled down the
WHEN OPERATING ON TOP OF A STOCKPILE
slope.
• Equipment operating at the top of the • Use a bulldozer or loader, together with buffer
material, to push the material over the crest of
stockpile could drive over the edge or through
the pile.
a berm.
• Pedestrians at the bottom of the slope could • Always keep an eye out for cracks, slumping
on the slope, or bulging at the toe. These are
also be seriously injured by falling material.
signs that the slope may be unstable. If you
• The stability of the slope can quickly change them, warn other workers immediately.
with fluctuations in the weather (changes in
moisture, freezing and thawing, etc.).
• Never move or alter barriers and berms.
• When using a loader or bulldozer, always
approach the crest at a right angle (90°) to
Identify controls the edge to keep the weight of the equipment
away from the edge.
BEFORE STARTING WORK
• Use the site plan to remind yourself of Demonstrate
the location of structures, stockpiles, and
roadways.
Review the site plan and point out any stockpiles.
• Never exceed the maximum height of Ask what the maximum height is for each
any stockpile. Maximum height must be stockpile. Ask loader operators to explain how
determined by an engineer. they will excavate material from each stockpile.

Vehicles and Equipment 61

Variable reach lift truck hand signals
Explain dangers The operator and the signaller must decide on a
way to communicate with each other. Often the
Variable reach lift trucks are known by many best way is to use clear, standard hand signals.
names such as articulating or telescopic lift Here are some standard hand signals for working
trucks, telehandlers, and zoom booms. with variable reach lift trucks.
Workers have suffered serious injuries from being
struck by a lift truck or its load. Workers have also Demonstrate
been crushed by shelving that has collapsed on
top of them after being struck by a lift truck. Demonstrate the hand signals below. Ask your
Lift truck incidents cause a lot of property crew to practise them so that they become
damage as well. natural.
Hand out IHSA’s pocket-sized Variable Reach Lift
Identify controls Truck Hand Signals Card (V014).

If a person could be endangered by equipment

or its load, a signaller must be used to help the
operator.
Tilt Tilt Boom Up Boom Down
Fork Fork
Up Down

1 2 3 4
Boom Up Slowly Boom Down Close Clam Open Clam
Slowly

5 6 7 8
Tilt Tilt Shift Fork Left Shift Fork Right
Forks Forks
Left Right

9 10 11 12

Turn Left Turn Right Shorten Extend

Hydraulic Boom Hydraulic Boom

13 14 15 16
Travel Away from Travel Towards Everything Slowly Stop
Signaller Signaller

17 18 19 20
Stop NO RESPONSE
Everything SHOULD BE
MADE TO
UNCLEAR
21 SIGNALS 22 V014

62 Vehicles and Equipment

Ready-mix driver and concrete pumping hand signals
Explain dangers The operator and the signaller must decide on a
way to communicate with each other. Often the
best way is to use clear, standard hand signals.
Heavy equipment such as ready-mix concrete
trucks and concrete pumps on a construction site Here are some standard hand signals for working
can cause a lot of injuries. with concrete trucks and pumps.
• Workers can be struck by the equipment or
by their moving parts. Demonstrate
• Workers can be crushed by concrete being
spilled accidentally. Demonstrate the hand signals below. Ask your
crew to practise them so that they become
natural.
Identify controls
Hand out IHSA’s pocket-sized Ready-mix Driver
and Concrete Pumping Hand Signals Card
If a person could be endangered by equipment
(V007).
or its load, a signaller must be used to help the
operator.

READY-MIX DRIVER HAND SIGNALS

Head Back Back Pull
In In Up Forward

1 2 3 4
Stop Raise Chute Lower Chute Start
Pouring

5 6 7 8
Stop Pouring Lock or Unlock Slow NO RESPONSE
Chute Down SHOULD BE
Drum
MADE TO
UNCLEAR
9 10 11 SIGNALS 12

CONCRETE PUMPING HAND SIGNALS

Start Slow Stop Pump Little Bit Relieve Pressure
Pump Pump 2 Taps
Speed Down
Up

1 2 3 4 5
Boom Up Boom Down Boom Left Boom Right Stop
Boom

6 7 8 9 10
Open or Close or All NO
Extend Boom Retract Boom Done RESPONSE
Clean SHOULD BE
Up MADE TO
UNCLEAR
11 12 13 14 SIGNALS V007

Vehicles and Equipment 63

Concrete trucks—Cleaning drums 1
Explain dangers • Remove the ignition key and lock all doors
to the truck. The key should stay with the
The mixing drum of a concrete truck must be worker who enters the drum. If multiple keys
cleaned regularly because concrete hardens and have been issued for the truck, find a way to
sticks to the drum. prevent access to the cab.

During cleaning, workers may be exposed to • Even if lockout has been verified, the truck’s
these hazards: drum can still rotate due to shifting loads or
because of work inside. The drum must be
• Start-up of the mixer unexpectedly secured manually to prevent movement.
• Noise • To secure the drum, attach one end of a tie-
• Vibration down to the top of the lower entry port and
extend it over the drum. Attach a second tie-
• Respiratory hazards
down to the bottom of the port. Connect both
• Skin hazards from wet concrete tie-downs to the frame of the truck.
• Heat stress. • Never enter the drum from the upper charge
unless the lower ports have been opened. If
Identify controls the ports are blocked by hardened concrete,
use a sledgehammer to remove it.
• Never enter the mixer drum unless you have • Never chip concrete overhead. Rotate the
followed the company’s written procedures upper portion of the drum to the lowest
for proper lockout and tagging. position and work on it. Repeat the lockout
procedures after rotating the drum.
• Inspect the inside of the drum for loose
concrete that shows cracks, movement, or • Wear the following personal protective
other signs that it could become loose once equipment (PPE):
inside. Rotate sections of unstable concrete to – A hard hat that meets CSA or ANSI
the lowest position and work on it first. standards
• Inform everyone who may be affected by the – Safety goggles or a face shield
truck that it will be out of service and that – CSA-certified Grade 1 work boots
workers will be inside.
– Double hearing protection (i.e., earplugs
• Park the concrete truck in a secure location. and earmuffs together)
Apply the emergency brake and remove the
ignition key. – A NIOSH-approved respirator
• Chock/block the wheels and post an “Out of – Anti-vibration gloves
Service” sign on each door of the cab. – A light, loose, long-sleeved shirt and long
pants.
• Disconnect the truck battery. Note: This must
be done by someone who meets the legal
definition of a competent person.
Demonstrate
• Apply a lock to the positive terminal of Identify the competent person who will be
the battery to make sure it cannot be responsible for disconnecting the battery. Also
reconnected. Each person who enters the identify the helper.
drum should have their own personal lock
attached to a hasp. Demonstrate the proper procedure for inserting
earplugs and review the manufacturer’s
• Apply a tag to the lock to indicate that it instructions.
should not be connected.
Show how to perform a negative-pressure and
• Verify that the truck has no energy by
positive-pressure seal check on a respirator. For
attempting to start the ignition.
more info, see Respirators—Fit safety talk.

64 Vehicles and Equipment

Concrete trucks—Cleaning drums 2
Explain dangers • Always wear your hearing protection when
chipping. For example, removing it for 5
The mixing drum of a concrete truck must be minutes out of an 8-hour work shift can
cleaned regularly because concrete hardens and reduce the protection factor by 10 decibels!
sticks to the drum. • Wearing music headphones or listening to
During cleaning, workers may be exposed to music under your earmuffs is not appropriate.
these hazards: This can actually increase your exposure to
noise.
• Start-up of the mixer unexpectedly
• Like any other equipment, you must inspect
• Noise your hearing protection before each use. Look
• Vibration for:
• Respiratory hazards – earmuff cushions that are no longer
pliable
• Skin hazards from wet concrete
– dirt, cracking, or stiffness.
• Heat stress.
The noise generated inside a drum while
chipping concrete is so loud that double hearing Demonstrate
protection is almost always required.
Demonstrate to your crew how to properly fit
Some of the health effects associated with long- earplugs and earmuffs (see pictures below).
term noise exposure include:
Earplugs must be properly inserted all the
• Permanent hearing loss way into your ear. The amount of protection it
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) provides you depends on how well it is inserted.
• High blood pressure
• Tiredness
• Stress and anxiety
• Risk of heart disease
• Irritability

Identify controls
Hearing loss is permanent and irreversible, but it
can be prevented. Follow some of these simple For ear muffs, the headband should have good
steps to reduce your risk while chipping concrete tension against the side of your head. There
from drums. should be no gaps between the ear muff cushion
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the sides of your head.
for fitting and cleaning your hearing
protection.
• In addition to the required personal protective
equipment (PPE), wear earplugs and earmuffs
together as the noise level is typically very
high.
• Make sure your employer provides you with
different types of hearing protection devices
that are available. Pick the type of earplugs
and earmuffs that feel comfortable for you.

Vehicles and Equipment 65

Sharing the road with trucks
Explain dangers 5. Keep the centre lane open
Don’t block a truck’s passing lane. On multi-
As drivers, we are all partners in road safety. lane highways, trucks longer than 6.5 m (21 ft)
Whether we’re behind the wheel of a large truck are not allowed to use the far-left lane. Instead
or a small car, we all play an important role in the they must use the lane immediately to the
health and well-being of those around us. right to pass slower vehicles. On a three-lane
Although the size and weight of large trucks highway, trucks use the centre lane to pass.
can create certain hazards for smaller vehicles, 6. Watch out for wind pressure
statistics show that the majority of fatal collisions Wind pressure created at high speeds by
between cars and trucks are caused by the driver large trucks can make your vehicle harder
of the car. Often the problem is that drivers do to handle. Keep both hands on the steering
not understand the limitations of large trucks. wheel to maintain control.
7. Use headlights and wipers
Identify controls
In rainy or snowy weather, be sure you have
your headlights and wipers on. The water or
1. Give trucks more stopping distance
slush thrown off by a large truck can make
Trucks need a much longer braking distance it hard for you to see. If you can’t see clearly
than cars. Signal your intention to turn, slow enough to pass a truck, wait until you can.
down, or stop well ahead of time to give any
8. Don’t follow too closely
trucks that are behind you more time to brake.
When changing lanes, don’t cut into a truck’s If a truck brakes suddenly and you’re
space cushion, which is the space in front of a following too close, you can quickly find
truck that allows the driver to brake safely. If yourself in a serious rear-end collision. When
you do, it will limit what the truck driver can following a truck, you should be able to see
do to avoid a collision. the driver in the mirror. Remember: If you
can’t see the driver, the driver can’t see you.
2. Give trucks more turning room
9. Beware of blind spots
Trucks need a lot of room when they turn. At
intersections, truck drivers that are turning A truck’s blind spots are beside the left door,
right may move into the left lane to avoid directly behind the truck, and immediately in
hitting the curb as they turn. If you ignore the front of the truck. It’s risky to drive in a truck’s
truck’s turn signals and pull up on its right blind spot. Try to stay visible and never drive
side, you may be squeezed between the truck behind a truck when it is reversing. Mirrors
and the curb as it makes the turn. don’t show everything.
3. Pass quickly but safely 10. Remember the rollback
When passing a truck, don’t drive alongside When stopping behind a truck on a hill or
it for too long and don’t cut in too closely in incline, leave at least one car length between
front of the truck when you re-enter the lane. your vehicle and the truck ahead. Trucks may
Wait until you see the entire front of the truck roll backwards slightly because the driver
in your rear-view mirror before moving back has to take one foot off the brake and put it
into the lane. Always check your blind spot on the accelerator while operating the clutch
before pulling back in. Once you re-enter the with the other foot.
lane, try to maintain your speed.
4. Slow down when a truck is passing you Demonstrate
Move to the right within your lane and slow
down slightly to allow the truck to pass safely. Show your crew where the blind spots are located
Keep your eyes on the road ahead, but glance on a large truck.
at your mirrors when necessary.

66 Vehicles and Equipment

Distracted driving
Explain dangers 5. Keep it clean—Things like pop cans, wrappers,
coffee cups, or sports equipment can all
Distracted driving means that someone is doing distract you by moving or rolling around on
something that takes their attention away from the floor. By cleaning your car, you can limit
the road while they’re driving. This could include: this distraction.

• Talking on their phone or even keeping it 6. Set up your phone—Some apps or settings
within easy reach can block incoming calls and texts while
driving, or send automatic replies to people
• Adjusting the radio or programming a GPS trying to call or text you. Before you get in
• Eating, drinking, combing their hair, shaving, your vehicle, record an outgoing message that
putting on makeup, or getting dressed tells callers you’re driving and you’ll get back
to them. Or pair your car audio system with
• Looking or reaching for something on the your phone using Bluetooth®.
passenger seat, back seat, or floor
7. Turn off your phone or switch it to silent
• Thinking more about the events of the day mode—You can even put it in the glove
than their driving
compartment (lock it, if you have to) or in a
• Paying more attention to their passengers bag on the back seat so you’re not tempted.
than to the road ahead of them.
WHILE DRIVING
Distractions are a serious danger, not only to the
driver but also to passengers and other motorists. 1. Use a hands-free or mounted device—
The OPP reports that a person is injured in a In Ontario, it’s against the law to hold
distracted driving collision every 30 minutes. It is an electronic device in your hand while
the cause of more fatal collisions than speeding you’re driving. Although hands-free and
or impaired driving. mounted devices are permitted, they’re still
a distraction. It’s safer not to make or answer
In Ontario, tougher penalties on distracted driving
any phone calls when behind the wheel.
came into effect on Jan 1, 2019. For a first offense,
drivers may be fined up to $1,000, lose their 2. Stay relaxed and alert—If you’re worried or
licence for three days, and receive three demerit tired, you can’t react as quickly.
points. Convicted motorists may also see their 3. Use your phone only when it is safe to do
insurance rates go up. so—If you have to make a call or send a text
or email, pull off the road carefully and come
Identify controls to a complete stop in a safe place. Or ask your
passenger to take a call or send a text for you.
BEFORE DRIVING 4. Don’t answer e-mails or text messages—Each
1. Do a pre-trip inspection—Check your vehicle time you read a text or an email, you’re taking
before you get in. That will help you spot a your eyes off of the road for at least four
problem before it’s too late. seconds. Studies have shown that drivers who
2. Map it out—Before travelling, map out your take their eyes off the road for more than two
route first. Put your travel information into seconds are twice as likely to have a crash.
your GPS while you’re still parked.
Demonstrate
3. Be comfortable—Before putting the car
in gear, make sure you’re comfortable by
Show your workers how to set up their phones
adjusting the seat, the heat/air conditioning,
to send automatic replies or block calls and texts
the mirrors, and the steering wheel.
while driving.
4. Eat, drink, and do your grooming at home— Review your company’s distracted driving health
Give yourself the time to do those things
and safety policy with your crew. Remind them
before you get into your vehicle. Your only job
that their attention must be on the task of driving.
should be to drive safely.

Vehicles and Equipment 67

Trenching—Soil types
Explain dangers • Has a damp appearance after it’s excavated.
The sides of a trench will remain vertical for
An unstable trench can collapse, killing or injuring several hours. After that, exposure to air and
workers. Trench stability is affected by a number sunlight will cause tension cracks to appear. The
of factors such as weather, moisture, vibration, soil will begin cracking and splaying into the
and previous excavation. trench.
Time is also a critical factor. Some trenches will TYPE 3 SOIL
remain open for a long period, then suddenly
collapse for no apparent reason. • Stiff to firm, compact to loose in consistency.
May be backfill or previously excavated soil.
Soil type is one of the most important factors
affecting trench stability. In a single trench, soil • Signs of surface cracking and water seepage.
properties can vary widely from top to bottom or • When dry, it may run easily into a well-defined
along its length. Even hard soil may contain faults conical pile.
in seams or layers that make it unstable when
• Low degree of internal strength.
excavated.
When dry, the sides of the trench will not stand
vertically and will cave in to a natural slope (45°).
Identify controls When wet, the soil will stand for a short period.
However, it dries quickly and chunks or slabs will
The foreperson or supervisor on a project must start to fall into the trench.
be knowledgeable about soil types and plan
protection accordingly. TYPE 4 SOIL
There are four general types of soil—from dry, • Soft to very soft, very loose in consistency,
dense, and hard (Type 1) to wet, muddy, and very sensitive to vibration and motion.
unable to support itself (Type 4). • Any disturbance significantly reduces its
TYPE 1 SOIL natural strength.

• Hard, very dense. You can only penetrate it • Runs or flows easily unless completely
with difficulty by using a small sharp object. supported before excavation.

• Low natural moisture content, high degree of • Almost no internal strength.

internal strength. • Wet or muddy.
• No signs of water seepage. • Exerts substantial fluid pressure on its
• Need mechanical equipment to excavate it. supporting system.

When excavated, the sides of the trench will The sides of the trench must be supported and
appear smooth and shiny and will remain vertical contained in order to excavate to any significant
with no water released from the trench wall. depth.

If exposed to sunlight for several days, the walls

will lose their shiny appearance but remain intact. Demonstrate
If exposed to rain or wet weather, the soil may
break down along the edges. With your crew, examine soil samples on site and
determine the soil type.
TYPE 2 SOIL
• Very stiff, dense. You can penetrate it with Demonstrate any tests you know for determining
moderate difficulty by using a small sharp different types of soil.
object but a pick can be driven in easily.
• Low to medium natural moisture content,
medium degree of internal strength.

68 Trenching
Trenching—Protection
Explain dangers SHORING
Shoring is a system that supports walls to
You risk injury or death if you enter a trench prevent soil movement. It also helps to support
deeper than 1.2 metres (4 feet) that has not been underground utilities, roadways, and foundations.
sloped, shored, or protected by a trench box. The two types of shoring used most commonly
are timber and hydraulic. Both consist of
Identify controls posts, wales, struts, and sheathing. One major
advantage of hydraulic shoring is that you don’t
SLOPING have to enter the trench to install the system.
Installation can be done from the top of the
Sloping the walls is one way to keep a trench trench.
from collapsing. The angle of the slope depends
on soil conditions. Whenever possible, shoring should be installed as
excavation proceeds. If there’s any delay between
• Type 1 and 2 soils: Cut trench walls back at an digging and shoring, no one should enter the
angle of 1-to-1 or 45°. That’s 1 m (3 ft) back for unprotected trench.
each 1 m up. Walls should be sloped starting
at 1.2 m (4 ft) up the wall. TRENCH BOXES
• Type 3 soil: Cut walls back at an angle of Trench boxes aren’t meant to shore up or support
1-to-1, but from the bottom of the trench. trench walls. They’re only meant to protect
workers in case of a cave-in.
• Type 4 soil: Slope the walls at 1-to-3. That’s
3 m (10 ft) back for every 1 m (3 ft) up from The space between the box and the trench wall
the trench bottom. should be backfilled. Otherwise a cave-in or
collapse may cause the trench box to tilt or turn
over. It’s also easier to enter the box if soil comes
right up next to it.
Trench boxes are commonly used in open areas
away from utilities, roadways, and foundations. If
you’re in the trench, stay inside the box.
Minimum LADDERS
Bank Slope
Whether the trench is sloped, shored, or
protected by a trench box, you need a way to
climb in and out safely.
Trenches must have ladders in the areas
protected by shoring or trench boxes. The ladder
must be securely tied off at the top, extend above
the shoring or box by at least 1 m (3 ft), and be
inspected regularly for damage.
Minimum
Bank Slope A ladder should be placed as close as possible to
where you’re working—and never more than 7.5 m
(25 ft) away.

Demonstrate
Review the protective systems used on site.
Check condition of sloping, shoring, or trench
Minimum box. Are ladders provided for getting in and out?
Bank Slope
Show participants the sloping diagrams.

Trenching 69
Trenching—Inspection
Explain dangers In trench boxes, look for
• Damage and other defects
Without regular and frequent inspection, you • Deformed plates
have no assurance that your sloping, shoring, or
trench boxes are effective in protecting workers • Cracks in welds
from a trench collapse. • Bent or distorted welds in sleeves and struts
• Missing struts
Identify controls • Bent struts

Sloping, shoring, and trench boxes must be • Holes, bends, or other damage to plates.
inspected regularly. Inspection is everyone’s During use, check the trench box regularly
responsibility. and often to make sure that it is not shifting or
With hydraulic shoring, look for settling more on one side than the other. This can
indicate movement of soil or water underneath.
• Leaks in hoses and cylinders
If the box is shifting or settling, get out and tell
• Bent bases your supervisor about it.
• Broken or cracked nipples Inspect the ground around trenches for tension
• Cracked, split, or broken sheathing. cracks. These may develop parallel to the trench
at a distance of about one-half to three-quarters
Report any of these conditions to your supervisor.
of the trench depth.
Check timber shoring before it’s installed. Discard
If you find cracks in the ground, alert the crew
any damaged or defective lumber.
and double-check your shoring or trench box.
With timber shoring, check for
It’s dangerous to overlook damage or defects in
• Cracked or bowed sheathing protective systems. Even if the job is short-term
• Wales crushed where they join struts or almost finished, trenches can still cave in.
• Loose or missing cleats Whether protected by sloping, trench boxes, or
shoring, trenches must be provided with ladders
• Split or bowed wales so that workers can enter and exit safely. These
• Struts off level. ladders must also be inspected regularly for
If wales show signs of crushing, this indicates damage. Ladders found to be defective must be
structural problems and the need for more struts. taken out of service and replaced immediately.

Make sure that shoring members are the size

required by regulation for the depth of your Demonstrate
trench and the type of soil.
With your crew, inspect any sloping, shoring, and
Always check areas near shoring where water
trench boxes on site. Check ground conditions
may have seeped in. The combination of water
nearby.
and granular soil can lead to washout. This
undermines the trench wall and has killed and Refer to the appropriate regulations for more
injured workers several times in the past. information (O. Reg 213/91, Part III (s. 222–242)).

70 Trenching
Excavator hand signals
Explain dangers The operator and the signaller must decide on a
way to communicate with each other. Often the
Excavators, backhoes, and other types of heavy best way is to use clear, standard hand signals.
equipment can cause injuries and fatalities to Here are some standard hand signals for working
equipment operators and workers on foot during with excavators.
trenching operations.
Workers have also suffered serious injuries from Demonstrate
being struck by the load carried by this type of
equipment. Demonstrate the hand signals below. Ask your
crew to practise them so that they become
Identify controls natural.
Hand out IHSA’s pocket-sized Excavator Hand
If a person could be endangered by equipment Signals Card (V015).
or its load, a signaller must be used to help the
operator. EXCAVATOR HAND SIGNALS
Load Load Swing Swing
Up Down Left Right

1 2 3 4

Turn Left Turn Right Travel This Far To Go

5 6 7 8

Everything Slow Stop Engine Stop Emergency Stop

9 10 11 12

Boom Up Boom Down Telescope in Telescope Out

13 14 15 16
Dipper In Dipper Out Counter Rotate Counter Rotate

17 18 19 20

Open Bucket Close Bucket Dog Everything NO RESPONSE

SHOULD BE
MADE
5110 TORoad, #400
Creekbank
Mississauga,
UNCLEAR ON L4W 0A1
1-800-263-5024 905-625-0100
SIGNALS
21 22 23 V015

No response should be made to unclear signals!

Trenching 71
Confined spaces—Definition
Explain dangers Typical locations include the following:
• In chemical and petrochemical plants,
The hazards of working in confined spaces confined spaces include tanks, vessels, pipes,
are often not recognized until it’s too late. For sumps, and pits.
example: • Confined spaces in heavy industrial plants
• Four workers died from hydrogen sulphide can be roasters, digesters, mixers, bins, and
poisoning in a sewage holding tank. conveyors.
• A worker was killed by carbon monoxide gas • Sewage-handling and water-treatment plants
from a gasoline-powered pump used to drain include various kinds of confined spaces, from
a pit. settling and holding tanks to maintenance
• A worker was caught in a mixing tank that holes and wells below floor level.
was accidentally started while he was inside. • For utility workers, confined spaces include
cable chambers, hydro vaults, sewer systems,
water towers, excavations, trenches, and
Identify controls storage tanks.
A “confined space” is defined as a place • In general construction, confined spaces
include vaults, maintenance holes, tanks, and
a. that is fully or partially enclosed other spaces that meet the definition.
b. that is not both designed and constructed for Physical hazards such as energized electrical
continuous human occupancy conductors, operating equipment, stored energy,
c. in which atmospheric hazards may occur pressurized pipes, noise, and heat sources must
because of its construction, location, or be controlled in confined spaces through lockout
contents, or because of work that is done in it. and tagging.
(O. Reg. 632/05) You must also control other dangers, including
All three conditions must be met before a space those you may introduce into the space by the
is defined as a confined space. work being performed. Such hazards include
hazardous dusts, chemical vapours, engine
It must be fully or partially enclosed because air exhaust, and welding fumes.
does not move in and out of this type of space
in sufficient quantities, so there is potential for a Other spaces that don’t fall under the definition
hazardous atmosphere to be generated inside it. of confined space but need to be assessed and
controlled include
It must not be designed or constructed for
continuous human occupancy, meaning that the
• Trenches and excavations
space is not for people to work in on a regular • Basements
basis. It is usually meant to store material, • Halls
transport products, or enclose a process. But
• Small rooms.
occasionally, some work must be done inside it.
These spaces must be adequately ventilated to
Atmospheric hazards may occur in it, which
ensure hazardous materials and atmospheres are
means that one of the following conditions apply:
not present and do not accumulate from the work
• An accumulation of flammable, combustible, being performed. Workers have been overcome
or explosive agents and killed by solvent and adhesive vapours in
• Less than 19.5% or more than 23% oxygen small, poorly ventilated rooms.

• An accumulation of contaminants that could

result in short-term health effects that pose Demonstrate
an immediate threat to life, or interfere with a
person’s ability to escape unaided. Identify confined spaces on the project with the
crew and discuss potential dangers.

72 Confined Spaces
Confined spaces—Dangerous atmospheres
Explain dangers Make sure the equipment is able to detect what
you suspect. Some detectors have sensors that
Dangerous atmospheres have killed those check for oxygen content, explosive gases or
working in confined spaces as well as those vapours, and a range of toxic gases. Some have
attempting rescue. Dangerous types of only one or two sensors and may not detect
atmospheres include certain types of hazards. You may need a
selection of detectors—one detector can’t test for
• Flammable and explosive everything.
• Toxic Check all levels of the space. Some contaminants
• Oxygen-deficient are lighter than air and accumulate near the top
of the space. Others are heavier than air and
• Oxygen-enriched.
settle at the bottom.
Flammable and explosive atmospheres include
If you leave the space for a break or lunch, test
• Natural gas from leaking gas lines or natural before you go back in. Dangerous atmospheres
sources can develop without warning.
• Methane from decaying sewage If tests indicate a dangerous atmosphere, you
• Propane gas from leaking cylinders or must NOT enter the space until it is thoroughly
equipment ventilated and subsequent tests indicate the air is
safe to breathe.
• Gasoline vapour from leaking tanks and spills
Ventilation and testing must be continued as long
• Vapour from solvents used for painting, as you are in the space.
cleaning, refinishing, etc.
If the space can’t be adequately ventilated, you
Toxic atmospheres include can only enter if
• Vapour from solvents • you wear suitable respiratory protection and a
• Hydrogen sulfide from decaying sewage or full-body harness attached to a rope anchored
raw petroleum outside the space and held by a worker with
• Carbon monoxide from engine exhaust. an alarm

Oxygen-deficient atmospheres contain less than • you have a means of communication with the
19.5% oxygen. Breathing oxygen-deficient air worker outside
can make you lose judgment, coordination, and • a person trained and equipped in artificial
consciousness. In a confined space, oxygen can respiration and emergency rescue is available
be displaced by other gases or used up by rusting outside the space.
metal, combustion, or bacteria digesting sewage. Never try to rescue a worker overcome in a
Oxygen-enriched atmospheres contain more confined space unless you are trained and
than 23% oxygen. They are rare and are usually equipped for it.
caused by leaking oxygen hoses or cylinders. Many workers trying to save their buddies have
become victims themselves. Get emergency help.
Identify controls
Demonstrate
Check for atmospheric hazards before entering
any confined space. Use properly calibrated Review the types of confined spaces and
gas detection equipment. Many dangerous atmospheric hazards that your crew may
atmospheres cannot be detected by smell or encounter. Demonstrate how to use gas detection
taste. equipment.

Confined Spaces 73
Confined spaces—Physical hazards
Explain dangers • Isolate the space by disconnecting supply
and drain lines. Lock out and tag the lines so
In addition to dangerous atmospheres, confined they won’t be reopened while you’re working
spaces such as tanks, vats, vessels, hoppers, and inside.
bins can present physical hazards such as • Inspect the space for dangerous contents
• Poor entry and exit such as grain or sand that could slide, shift,
and bury you inside.
• Cramped working conditions
• Lock out any electrical, hydraulic,
• Temperature extremes or pneumatic equipment that could
• Rotating or moving equipment unexpectedly rotate, drop, roll, or snap shut
in the space.
• Reactive or corrosive residues
• Block and secure any equipment that
• Electrical hazards
could move because of gravity or stored
• Uncontrolled movement of liquids or solids. momentum.
Some of these hazards involve greater risk inside • Wear safety harnesses and lifelines to make
a confined space than outside. rescue more efficient in case of an emergency.
For example, electrical flashover can be more • Use an entry permit system. This helps
dangerous in a cramped maintenance hole where identify hazards and controls, and keeps track
there’s limited escape than in an electrical room of who is inside.
with clear exits. And fire in a confined space can
be far more dangerous than fire in an open work
area. Demonstrate
Review procedures for lockout, tagging, and
Identify controls entry. Discuss some of the controls shown in the
diagram below.
• Develop a rescue plan for the space and
practice to make sure that everyone knows
what to do.

74 Confined Spaces
Safety at home
Explain dangers SAFETY AT HOME
• Eliminate slipping and tripping hazards.
The purpose of delivering safety talks and • Don’t overreach when on a ladder.
providing health and safety training is to
encourage you to work safely and to think about • Minimize possible electrical exposures.
health and safety at work. But off-the-job safety • Teach your family to identify hazards.
is also important.
• Learn basic first aid and CPR.
Studies have found that more accidents happen
in the home than anywhere else.* SAFETY DURING AN EMERGENCY
Just like at work, at-home incidents are caused by Across Canada, we face a number of natural
improper practices and lack of precautions and hazards. Knowing what to do in an emergency
protection. That’s why safe practices at home are situation is part of being prepared.
just as important as safety on the job. • Be prepared to take care of yourself and your
Whether you’re at work or at play, driving for family for a minimum of 72 hours during an
work or driving for pleasure, being healthy and emergency.
safe requires taking proper precautions and • Develop an emergency plan and follow it.
practicing safe procedures.
• Have an emergency kit on hand.
• Make sure you are safe before assisting others.
Identify controls
• Listen to the radio or television for
SAFETY WHILE DRIVING information from local officials and follow
their instructions.
• Don’t speed.
• Stay put until all is safe or until you are
• Maintain your vehicle in good mechanical ordered to evacuate.
condition.
• If you have to leave your home, protect it by:
• Watch out for other drivers.
– ­Shutting off water and electricity if
• Allow for proper stopping distances. officials tell you to
• Be courteous, especially if you’re in a – Locking your home
company vehicle.
– Leaving natural gas service on, unless
• Remember: Drinking and driving don’t mix. officials tell you to turn it off. (If you turn
Don’t drive if you are impaired or under the off the gas, the gas company will have
influence of drugs and alcohol. to reconnect it. In a major emergency, it
SAFETY AT PLAY could take weeks for a professional to
respond.)
• Be careful not to overexert yourself.
• Always loosen up before you begin playing a Demonstrate
sport.
• Learn the safety rules associated with your Review some potential emergency risks in your
recreational activities (i.e., boating, hunting). region with your crew and discuss how to prepare
• Teach your family how to play safely and for different situations. For example, how would
always enforce the rules. you respond to ice storm, floods, storm surges,
fire, or hurricanes?
• Know your limits. Don’t try to keep up with
people who are younger or more athletic than Discuss what type of emergency kit you should
you are. purchase for your home and what should be
included.
*For more information, visit the following web page:
www.rospa.com/home-safety/advice/general/facts-and-figures/

Techniques and Tools 75

Drywall installation—Noise exposure
Explain dangers If the sources of loud noise cannot be eliminated
or reduced, hearing protection devices must be
Tools and equipment used for installing drywall used to prevent hearing loss.
can be noisy. Over time, this can lead to
permanent hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the Demonstrate
ear), and other effects.
Hearing loss prevents you from hearing other Show your crew the table below containing sound
hazards on the job. It also causes problems in levels for tools commonly used for framing and
your personal life. drywall installation and the minimum exposure
time without hearing protection (per 8-hour shift).
• It interferes with hearing normal speech.
• It prevents you from socializing. Decibels Exposure
Tool and Tasks
(dBA) Limit
• It can cause high blood pressure. Battery-actuated tool
85.8 6 hr 35 m
• It is permanent. • Used for fastening 3 5/8-inch
steel track onto concrete
Noise is measured in “decibels” or “dBA”. The • Used for fastening 3 5/8-inch 94.2 57 min
Noise regulation (O. Reg. 381) requires employers steel track onto steel I-beam
to protect workers when the average exposure Powder-actuated tool
• Used for fastening 3 5/8-in 87.3 4 hr 42 m
to noise exceeds 85 decibels or more over
steel track onto concrete
an 8-hour work shift. This is called the 8-hour • Used for fastening 3 5/8-in 104.7 4 min
equivalent continuous sound level (Lex,8). steel track onto steel I-beam
Before relying on hearing protection devices such Gas-actuated tool
• Used for fastening 3 5/8-in 95.1 46 min
as earplugs and earmuffs to reduce exposure to
steel track onto concrete
noise, the employer must look for ways to either • Used for fastening 3 5/8-in
eliminate the source of noise or minimize the 101.7 10 min
steel track onto steel I-beam
amount of noise created by tools, equipment, or Handle drill (1/2-in) used for
work processes. mixing drywall joint compound 88.9 3 hr 15 m

Spade-handle drill (1/2-in)

Identify controls used for mixing drywall joint 94 1 hr
compound

• When using loud tools or equipment, warn Deep-cut band saw (120 V) used
for cutting 3 5/8-in (20-gauge) 92.5 1 hr 25 m
nearby workers to stay away. Put up barriers steel track
or rope the area off.
Impact screwdriver (cordless)
• Move sources of loud noise such as generators used for putting 3/16-in screws 95.3 44 min
or compressors as far away from your work into holes in concrete
area as possible. Rotary hammer drill used for
96.7 32 min
putting 3/16-in holes in concrete
• Put temporary barriers or enclosures around
Drywall screwdriver (6.5 amp)
loud equipment. Plywood with sound used for putting screws into 97.1 29 min
absorbing material (i.e., insulation) can drywall on steel framing
significantly reduce the noise and its effect on Angle grinder (4 1/2-in cordless)
others. used for cutting 3 5/8-in (20- 101.7 10 min
ga.) track
• Ensure tools and equipment are well
maintained. This can help keep them quieter. Drywall router used for cutting
105.8 4 min
drywall
Keep in mind that exposure to noise is cumulative
Chop saw (14-in) used for
and can add up from using different tools and cutting 3 5/8-in (20-ga.) track
109.3 2 min
equipment or working in different environments.
NOTE: Sound level can vary depending on the model of
tool or equipment. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide.

76 Techniques and Tools

Low-slope roofing–Hot asphalt
Explain dangers SAFE WORK PRACTICES
• Follow all manufacturers’ recommendations
Roofing asphalt is a petroleum-based product. It and procedures for asphalt usage.
is not a single chemical, but a mixture containing • Have an emergency plan in place and learn the
many different chemicals. roof’s escape routes.
During roofing projects, asphalt is heated in • Keep flammable material, gases, and/or liquids
roofing kettles. This process can produce vapour away from heat sources.
emissions and odours from the sulfur compound.
• Have at least one fully-charged 4A40BC-rated
Roofers who are exposed to this may experience: fire extinguisher near workers (within 20 ft).
• Headaches and nausea • Have at least one first aid attendant with a
• Eye, nose, throat, and skin irritation heat/burn treatment kit available.
• Fatigue and drowsiness • Make sure that the kettle operator is a
• Severe burns. competent worker who has a valid RE-O ROT.
• Make sure that the kettle is in good operating
condition before use. Report any defects to
Identify controls the foreperson or superintendent.
• Set the kettle on firm, level ground to avoid
BEFORE WORK BEGINS
spilling or tipping.
• Check that a risk assessment for asphalt work • Place barriers and signs around the kettle to
has been done. Follow up daily with the risk keep people at a safe distance.
assessment to make sure proper precautions
are being taken.
• Make sure the kettle wheels are fully inflated
and blocked to prevent rolling.
• Place kettle in a location that will lessen the • Ensure that the areas around kettles, tankers,
exposure of the operator and workers to
and propane cylinders are well ventilated.
fumes. Keep the kettle away from air intakes,
doors, and windows. • Keep propane cylinders at least 3 m (10 ft)
away from sources of flame or ignition.
• Discuss with the building owner whether air
intake systems should be turned off and air
• Using a hand-held thermometer, ensure that
the working temperature of asphalt is 190° to
intake vents should be closed or covered.
218°C. Never heat it above the flash point for
• If possible, use roofing equipment with lids. bitumen or rubberized asphalt (260°/274°C).
• Any worker who will use or handle propane • When filling felt machines, mini-mops, and
must hold a record of training (ROT) for buckets:
that purpose recognized by the Technical – Check pipe couplings and filling lines for
Standards and Safety Association (TSSA). Tar damage or leaks.
kettle operators require an RE-O ROT. Torch – Ensure pipes are supported and are also
operators require a CH-02T ROT. braced at every 90° joint.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE) – Stand upwind of filling lines.
• Workers must wear or use the PPE prescribed
– Be aware that moisture in pipes and
equipment may cause material to pop and
by law. When working with a roofing kettle,
splatter when heated.
PPE must include eye protection, a face
shield, and gloves to protect hands and arms.
Demonstrate
• Workers should cover exposed skin by
wearing gloves, long sleeves, and pants. Show your crew the safety data sheet (SDS) of the
• Workers should have access to respiratory asphalt work material you will be using and review
protection upon request. the procedures for safe handling and first aid.

Techniques and Tools 77

Hand-held masonry saws 1
Explain dangers • Ensure that the blade is mounted properly
and is facing the correct direction for
Hand-held masonry saws, commonly known as rotation. The blade should be snug and in
“quick-cut saws”, are widely used for cutting good condition.
concrete, masonry materials, and steel. These • Use only the blades and disks that are
high-powered tools can cause serious injuries, so compatible with your saw (e.g., maximum
take great care when working with them. rpm rating and diameter).
• The blade of the saw operates at high speeds. • Ensure that the appropriate blade is used
Kickback can occur if the blade becomes for the material being cut. (i.e., Never use a
wedged and the force sends the rotating masonry blade to cut wood.)
blade back towards the operator.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE)
• The saw is extremely loud and produces a lot
of vibration. • Always wear PPE in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions and legislated
• Gasoline-powered saws release carbon requirements.
monoxide (CO). In addition, spilled or leaking
fuel combined with the sparks produced • Wear eye protection that is CSA- or ANSI-
during cutting can cause a fire. approved. A face shield may be required as
well.
• Cutting concrete and masonry materials
can expose the operator to toxic dusts (e.g., • When wet cutting, wear a NIOSH-approved
silica), which can cause respiratory problems. dust mask. Remember: Wet cutting is the
It also produces flying particles that can strike preferred method.
the eye. • When dry cutting, wear a NIOSH-approved
• When cutting metal, the sparks produced can respirator.
cause a fire and the metal filings can become • Use gloves, a hard hat, CSA-approved safety
airborne and strike someone. boots, and earplugs or earmuffs.
• A saw that is left idling may bounce around or • Never wear loose clothing, chains, jewelry,
fall, causing injury or damage. etc.
• Fire-resistant clothing should be worn.
Identify controls
Demonstrate
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
• Always keep a copy of the owner’s manual With your crew, review the maintenance
on hand and follow the manufacturer’s procedures in the operating manual for the
instructions for servicing and maintenance. specific saw you will be using. Show them what
• Clean and change the air filter frequently to to look for during an inspection.
remove dust buildup.
• Inspect the saw and its components for
damage before using it. Replace any worn,
cracked, or broken parts before the saw is
used again.
• Never remove or alter any safety features of
the saw such as the protective guard or the
throttle trigger interlock.
• Make sure that the machine is well lubricated.

78 Techniques and Tools

Hand-held masonry saws 2
Explain dangers • Stand to the left of the saw and hold your left
arm straight. Activate the throttle with your
Hand-held masonry saws are high-powered tools right hand. (Reverse for left-handed saws.)
that can cause serious injuries. • To prevent kickback, never let the upper
• The blade of the saw operates at high speeds. quarter of the blade contact the material. Do
Kickback can occur if the blade becomes not cut above waist height and cut only one
wedged and the force sends the rotating item at a time.
blade back towards the operator. • Let the abrasive edges of the blade and
• The saw is extremely loud and produces a lot power of the engine to do the cutting. Don’t
of vibration. force it.

• Gasoline-powered saws release carbon • Bring the saw to full speed before starting
monoxide (CO). In addition, spilled or leaking the cut. If you feel resistance, the blade may
fuel combined with the sparks produced not be compatible with the material. If it’s a
during cutting can cause a fire. diamond blade, it may be glazed over. Using
the wrong blade is not only a safety hazard
• Cutting concrete and masonry materials but also increases your risk of developing
can expose the operator to toxic dusts (e.g., hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
silica), which can cause respiratory problems.
It also produces flying particles that can strike • Never use a saw or blade that is damaged.
the eye. • Secure and support the material you are
• When cutting metal, the sparks produced can cutting to prevent it from bending or
cause a fire and the metal filings can become pinching. Support heavy materials on both
airborne and strike someone. sides so it doesn’t fall.

• A saw that is left idling may bounce around or • Maintain a safe work zone when operating the
fall, causing injury or damage. saw. If the blade breaks, pieces may break off
and strike the operator or others nearby.
• Take precautions to prevent exposure to toxic
Identify controls exhaust fumes and the buildup of CO gas.
STARTING THE SAW • Before refueling saw, shut off the engine and
allow it to cool. Do not smoke while handling
• Keep others at least six feet away from you. fuel. Make sure gas caps are tight before
Place the saw on solid ground and secure it restarting.
with one foot in the rear handle.
• An abrasive blade is meant for cutting, not
• Grasp the top handle with one hand and for grinding or feathering.
set the throttle lock. Pull the recoil handle
towards your chest. TRANSPORTING THE SAW
• Never “drop start” or “throw start” a saw. This • Shut off the motor before setting the saw
leaves only one hand to control it. down. Allow it to cool off.
• Don’t let the pull cord snap back. • During transit, make sure the saw is secured
to prevent it from moving. Never put it in the
OPERATING THE SAW passenger’s seat of a vehicle.
• Before operating the saw, complete a hazard • Where possible, transport the saw in a well-
assessment of the work area and locate vented cabinet or in the open air.
buried cables or covered electrical services so
they can be avoided.
Demonstrate
• Hold the saw firmly with both hands and
plant your feet firmly in a wide stance before Show your workers the proper way to start and
starting to cut. operate a hand-held masonry saw.

Techniques and Tools 79

Mobile devices while driving
Explain dangers To resist the urge to use your device, you can:
• Turn off your device or switch it to silent
Distracted driving is the number-one killer on mode before you get in the car.
Ontario roads. It is responsible for more deaths • Silence any audible notifications that tempt
than impaired driving or speeding. you to check your phone while driving.
Distracted driving can be caused by using a • Put your device in the glove compartment
mobile device while you’re behind the wheel. This (lock it, if you have to) or in a bag on the back
includes: seat out of reach.
• Talking or texting on a phone Set up your devices—Before travelling, map out
• Manually dialing or scrolling through contacts your route or destination first and put your travel
• Programming or looking at your GPS information into your GPS.

• Looking at display screens of devices that Make sure your phone has caller ID and/or
are unrelated to driving such as laptops, MP3 voicemail. If the phone rings, don’t answer it
players, or DVD players. unless you pull over to a safe spot. Or let a
passenger answer the call.
Studies have shown that drivers who use a mobile
device while driving are four times more likely to Some apps or settings can block incoming calls
be in a collision. and texts while driving or send automatic replies
to people trying to call or text you. Before you
Most of us drive to and from work with our get in your vehicle, record an outgoing message
mobile devices within arm’s reach. Whether it’s that tells callers you’re driving and you’ll get back
a personal or work-related call or text, it can be to them when you’re done.
difficult to resist the urge to answer or take a
look. However, each time you read a text or an Set a good example—If you know that a worker
email, you’re taking your eyes off of the road for is driving, do not call them on the phone or try
at least four seconds. to contact them on any other wireless device. If
you’re not sure if they’re driving and the matter is
Studies have shown that drivers who take their urgent, place the call but ask them immediately
eyes off the road for more than two seconds are whether they’re driving. If they are, ask them to
twice as likely to have a crash. call you back after they pull over.
If you receive a call from a worker who you
Identify controls suspect is on their cell phone or other wireless
device, ask them if they’re driving. If they are,
Use hands-free devices—In Ontario, it’s against suggest that they pull over and call you back.
the law to use hand-held communication and
entertainment devices while driving. Although
hands-free devices are permitted, you’re not
Demonstrate
allowed to manually dial a phone, scroll through
contacts, or program your GPS. Show workers how to download a car mode app
or activate the “Do Not Disturb While Driving”
Don’t use your devices—There is no conclusive feature on their phones.
evidence that using a hands-free device is safer
than using a hand-held one. So the best practice If your company has a mobile device or
is not to use a mobile device while operating a distracted driving policy, review it with your
vehicle. workers. Be clear about who the policy applies
to (subcontractors, temporary workers, etc.) and
Resist the urge to look at or answer emails or what the consequences will be if they violate it.
text messages until you’ve finished driving. Let all
phone calls go directly to your voicemail. If you If your company does not have one, download a
must send a reply or make a call, pull over to a sample one from the ihsa website:
safe spot off the road. ihsa.ca/distracted-driving

80 Techniques and Tools

Mobile devices on worksites
Explain dangers • Let your calls go straight to voicemail when
you’re working. You can retrieve them at a
We all know the dangers associated with more convenient time.
distractions while driving. But what about • To reduce the temptation to use mobile
the distractions caused by mobile devices on devices on the worksite, ask workers to keep
worksites? them in their vehicles or store them in a
Working on a busy jobsite or operating tools and lockbox at the site trailer.
heavy machinery requires your full concentration. • If you have an urgent matter that requires
Inattention or distraction can result in injury to keeping in contact with family members, bring
yourself, injury to others, damage to property, or it to the attention of your supervisor and work
even death. out a plan so that the communication can be
Operating a mobile device diverts your attention done in a safe manner.
away from the task at hand or the hazards around • If you need to access important work-related
you. If you’re engaged in a phone conversation, information on your mobile device, stop any
your mind is on something other than your work work activities, inform your supervisor, and
or your safety. move to a safe work area.
You may even find yourself removing your safety • For supervisors, communication is part of the
glasses, gloves, hearing protection, or hard hat in job. However, they should limit their mobile
order to access your mobile device. device use to the site trailer, site office, or
Remember: It’s not just you. Your co-workers can other designated safe work areas away from
also become distracted, putting you in danger. general work activities. They should not make
or take calls while directing activities on the
site.
Identify controls
• Never use your mobile device on a worksite
Demonstrate
unless authorized by your supervisor. That
includes talking, texting, emailing, playing If your company has a health and safety policy
games, etc. concerning the use of mobile devices on
worksites, take the time to review it with your
• Never use your mobile device while operating workers.
any tools, machinery, equipment, or vehicles
or while performing activities that require Point out any designated safe work areas
your full attention. where they are allowed to use their mobile
devices. Be clear on who the policy applies to
• Don’t use your mobile device while (subcontractors, temporary workers, etc.) and
receiving work instructions or safety-related what the consequences will be if they violate the
information. policy.
• Wait until your lunch or rest break to use If your company does not have a policy, have a
your mobile device for personal calls or discussion about the importance of one. You can
other activities. But only use it in specially download a sample policy on mobile devices from
designated safe work areas, such as a site the Policy and Program Templates section on
trailer or break room. ihsa.ca under Company Health and Safety Rules.
• Never operate a mobile device near
flammable fumes or liquid, or when you’re in a
flammable environment.
• Turn off your mobile device completely when
working. If your ringer goes off, it may startle
you or someone in the area.

Techniques and Tools 81

Working alone
Explain dangers Mobile devices can also be used. Test the units
on-site to make sure that reception is reliable and
Working alone means that you’re the only person no obstructions or interference is blocking phone
on a site or you’re isolated from other workers on communications.
a site. In situations that are especially dangerous, check-
If you become injured, trapped, or unconscious ins should be done more often. These situations
when working alone and are not able to call for include:
help, it may be some time before anyone finds • Working with high voltages
out you’re in trouble or where you’re located. This • Working in extreme temperatures or weather
delay in getting help or treatment can cause an conditions
injury to become more serious, even deadly.
• Working at heights
Identify controls • Working in areas where a gas leak could
displace oxygen
When working alone, it is important that you: • Working on or around moving equipment or
machinery
• Are aware of real and potential hazards in the
area • Working in remote locations.
• Are trained to recognize and control these If working in a remote location, it’s good practice
hazards to contact emergency services to make sure they
• Are provided with the procedures and would be able to respond in case something
equipment to do the job safely happens. Otherwise, other arrangements should
be made.
• Have a check-in policy or other procedure in
place that lets people know if you’re in trouble There are some jobs that should NEVER be done
and identifies where you are. by anyone working alone. These include working
in confined spaces and working with toxic
Communication when working alone is crucial. chemicals. For these types of jobs, at least two
Ensure that: workers are always required.
• A procedure for checking in has been REMEMBER: Certain job tasks such as carrying
established. Either a person (e.g., supervisor) heavy material or securing a ladder may also
has been designated to check on you at require the help of a second worker.
regular intervals and at the end of the day or
you have a designated time or schedule for
calling in. Demonstrate
• The check-in procedure and intervals for Develop a working alone communication
contact are clearly understood by you and the plan with your workers. Determine who the
designated contact person. designated contact person will be, how they will
• The contact person is aware of your work communicate, and how often.
schedule each day and is kept up-to-date on Discuss some examples at your worksite of
changes to it. when workers may work alone and go over the
• The communication equipment you’re using is procedures for such work.
in good working order. Ensure all safety and work-related procedures
If a site telephone will be used, it should be are spelled out in the company health and safety
clearly identified, conveniently located, and policy and review them with your crew.
working properly. The number of the person to
be contacted should be posted on or near the
phone.

82 Techniques and Tools

Heaters
List location of temporary heaters on site. Fuel-fired equipment is a source of CO. Even in
small doses, CO can kill you. It’s a clear, colourless
gas that you can’t smell or taste. Ventilation is
___________________________________ necessary when using heaters powered by liquid
fuel or compressed gas.
___________________________________
Identify controls
___________________________________
• Choose an indirect-fired heater instead of a
direct-fired heater when you want to heat an
enclosed space.
Explain dangers
– An indirect-fired heater vents combustion
by-products outdoors while ducting
Temporary heaters are dangerous if you don’t
heated air indoors.
control the risks of explosion, fire, carbon
monoxide (CO) poisoning, and lack of fresh air. – A direct-fired heater (such as an open-
flame or closed-flame heater) releases
Temporary heaters can run on:
combustion by-products into the heated
• Electricity area.
• Liquids such as fuel oil or kerosene • Only workers holding an ROT certificate may
• Propane operate a propane, gas, or oil heater. However,
anyone can operate an electric heater.
• Natural gas.
• Place the heater on a firm, level surface
Many of the hazards of using temporary heaters to prevent tip over and do not block the
depend on how they’re powered. openings used for ventilation.
• Electric heaters are not as common as fuel- or • If a compressed gas cylinder is connected to a
gas-fired heaters. They’re used where heated heater, it must be at least 3 m (10 ft) away and
air must be free of combustion by-products secured to prevent movement.
such as carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon
dioxide (CO2). An electric heater is useful • Keep the flame end of the heater pointed
when working in a closed space with limited away from the gas cylinder and away from
fresh air. flammable materials. The heat from a burner
can ignite materials well past the burner’s end.
• Liquid fuel heaters (i.e., oil and kerosene)
provide an economical source of heat. But • Make sure the heater has a supply of fresh
you need a large storage tank on site for a air to operate safely and efficiently, and to
constant supply of fuel. prevent buildup of CO.
Some liquid-fuelled heaters release exhaust • Test heated areas for the presence of CO.
fumes with an oily smell. This can be
unpleasant for workers. A solution is to vent Demonstrate
the combustion by-products outdoors. This
is sometimes done to heat the air over new Show your crew the location of temporary
concrete in winter. heaters on site and do an inspection.
• Propane and natural gas heaters provide an
economical supply of heat. The equipment is Review the signs and symptoms of CO poisoning
lightweight and easy to move around on site. with the crew. The first signs are headache and
fatigue. More exposure can rapidly lead to loss of
However, both gases are highly flammable consciousness, arrested breathing, heart failure,
and explosive. You need to take precautions and death.
when storing, handling, or using these gases.

Techniques and Tools 83

Housekeeping
List housekeeping hazards on site. Identify controls

___________________________________ • Keep work and travel areas kept tidy, well-lit,

and ventilated. Clean up as work proceeds.

___________________________________
• Keep equipment and the areas around
equipment free of scrap and debris.

___________________________________
• Pick up, store, or dispose of tools, material,
or debris that may cause tripping or other
hazards.
• Keep stairways, passageways, ramps, and
other travel areas clear at all times.
Explain dangers • Secure loose or light materials stored on roofs
and open floors to keep them from blowing
We all know how fast rubbish builds up on a site— away in the wind. Resecure the material after
scrap lumber, broken bricks, pieces of drywall, removing any of it.
strap-bands, and packaging.
• Never throw material or let it fall from one
How can you concentrate on your work when level to another. Use an enclosed chute or
you’re worried about slipping, falling, or tripping lower the material in containers.
over garbage and debris? Production and
installation time go up while quality tails off. • Keep material at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) away
from floor and roof openings, floor and roof
Every year, poor housekeeping and storage edges, excavations, and trenches.
practices cause many accidents and injuries.
Construction rubbish is often irregular in shape, • Near opening, store material so that it won’t
hard to handle, and full of sharp objects. roll or slide in the direction of the opening.
Use blocking if necessary.
One of the biggest problems is packaging. Too
often it gets removed from material and left • Store materials away from overhead
wherever it falls. This creates tripping and slipping powerlines.
hazards. It also makes other hazards hard to see. • Before handling used lumber, remove or
Even worse, it invites more mess. When a site isn’t bend over any protruding nails and chip away
cleaned up, no one cares about leaving garbage hardened concrete.
where it drops. • Remove flammable rubbish and debris
When that happens, you can’t see faulty wiring, immediately from sources of ignition such as
protruding nails, damaged flooring, and missing welding, flame cutting, and propane heating.
scaffold planks. • Post signs to warn workers of hazardous
Clutter left around work and travel areas also areas.
makes it difficult to use material-handling • Wear eye protection at all times when there is
equipment. As a result, more material gets any risk of eye injury.
handled manually, which increases the risk of
injury and property damage.
Demonstrate
Housekeeping means cleaning up scrap and
debris, putting it in containers, and making sure Review any housekeeping problems relevant to
the containers are emptied regularly. It also your crew. Discuss housekeeping problems on
means proper storage of materials and other areas on site.
equipment. Effective housekeeping and storage
will prevent incidents and injuries. Review procedures for cleaning up and show
workers the location of gargabe bins. Assign
individual cleanup duties if required.

84 Techniques and Tools

Falling-object hazards
Explain dangers Carts with sides
When moving equipment, tools, or material,
The most common injuries workers suffer from always use a cart that is an appropriate size for
falling objects are bruises, fractures, strains, and what you are moving and make sure the cart has
sprains. The objects that commonly fall range sides. If you need to extend something over the
from large items such as roof trusses and steel sides of the cart, you must secure the item and
beams to small items such as fasteners and small the cart must be stable.
hand tools.
PROCEDURAL CONTROLS

Identify controls Securing loads

When lifting, make sure the load is balanced and
There are two types of controls you can use to secured. Check for small or loose pieces before
prevent falling objects from hurting workers: you lift. Otherwise, a shift in the load or the wind
could cause objects to fall. Before placing a load
1. Physical controls physically stop the object on a scaffold or a platform, make sure the work
from falling (or from falling very far).
area has properly built guardrails.
2. Procedural controls refer to changing the way Good hoisting practices
you work so that objects can’t fall.
Never lift, lower, or swing a load over someone’s
PHYSICAL CONTROLS head. Use barricades to block off areas where
Guardrails loads are being lifted or lowered. If the operator’s
view is impeded in any way, use a signaller to
Toeboards must be installed on all guardrails. assist the operator. Always use proper rigging
They stop objects from falling down to the level procedures and ensure the rigging equipment is
below. Toeboards must be a minimum of 89 mm in good condition.
(3.5 in) high and installed flush with the surface.
Good housekeeping
If you pile material higher than 89 mm (3.5 in)
high, put plywood panels or screening on the Keep tools and other materials away from edges,
guardrails. This will prevent materials from falling railings, and other elevated surfaces. Always stack
down to the level below and stop small objects materials on flat surfaces and secure them, if
from falling through the openings between rails. necessary, to avoid movement. When working, be
aware of your surroundings and watch that you
Open grating covers don’t inadvertently knock or hit something off the
If you are performing work on open grating, place level you are work on down to the level below.
non-slip plywood or a similar product on top of Proper material stacking
the grating to prevent small objects from falling
through it. To prevent tipping, store materials and equipment
at least six feet away from an edge. If you are
Barricades and overhead protective structures working near openings, arrange materials so
Use barricades to block off exclusion zones— that they can’t roll or slide in the direction of the
areas where workers are not allowed—below opening and use opening covers. Always secure
the work area. Combine barricades with signs material to prevent movement from the wind.
that indicate it is an exclusion zone and entry is When you remove something from a secured pile,
prohibited. This includes hoisting areas. When don’t forget to resecure the material.
barricades are not practical, use overhead
protective structures.
Demonstrate
Tool lanyards and tethers
These attach tools directly to the worker’s Perform a site inspection to identify falling-object
harness or tool belt. If used properly, they will hazards.
prevent tools from dropping to a lower level.

Techniques and Tools 85

Hand tools—Pliers and wrenches
Explain dangers WRENCHES
• Inspect a wrench for flaws, damaged parts, or
Injuries with hand tools are not often serious, but wear, which can cause it to slip and damage
they can be severe enough to send you to the fasteners.
hospital and make you lose time from work. • Replace damaged wrenches. Straightening a
Common causes include using the wrong tool, bent wrench only weakens it.
using the right tool improperly, rushing, and lack • Always grip the wrench so it will not cause
of training or experience. injury if it slips. But be prepared in case it
slips. Make sure your footing is solid, your
Identify controls stance is balanced, and your hands are clear.
• Use penetrating oil to loosen tight nuts and
ALL TOOLS bolts.
• Use tools for their intended purpose. Don’t • Always pull on a wrench whenever possible—
use pliers as wrenches. Don’t use wrenches as don’t push (see image below).
hammers.
• With adjustable wrenches, put pressure on the
• Wherever possible, don’t expose tools to permanent jaw, not the movable jaw.
extremes of heat and cold. Metal will lose its
• Use the right wrench for the job. Don’t use
temper and get brittle.
pipe wrenches on nuts or bolts. Don’t use
• Don’t extend the handles of tools with sleeves adjustable wrenches on pipe.
or cheater bars for more leverage and power.
• On adjustable wrenches, inspect knurl, jaw,
• Don’t confuse cushion grips with insulated and pin for wear.
handles. Cushion grips are for comfort only.
• Never overload a wrench by using a pipe
Insulated handles are for electrical shock
extension on the handle or by striking the
protection.
handle with a hammer. This can weaken the
• Don’t hammer on the handles of wrenches or metal of the wrench and cause it to break.
pliers to gain more force. The tool could bend,
break, or fly off and hit you or someone else.
Demonstrate
PLIERS
Review the types of pliers and wrenches used
• Use pliers with enough space between the
by your crew. Inspect a few for evidence of wear,
handles to keep the palm and fingers from
damage, or misuse.
being pinched.
• Pull on pliers—don’t push.
• Oil regularly. All it takes is a drop of oil on the
hinge.
• Use pliers that are big enough to do the job
with reasonable effort.
• Don’t use pliers to turn nuts and bolts. The
jaws can slip and damage corners and edges
of nuts and bolt heads. Use a proper wrench
instead.
• Replace pliers when teeth or cutters are
worn—they can slip and cause injury.

86 Techniques and Tools

Hand tools—Screwdrivers
Explain dangers • As best practice, make a pilot hole before
driving a screw into wood. Start with one or
More than any other tool, the screwdriver is used two “soft” turns, that is, with the fingers of
for jobs it was never meant to do. People use your free hand on the screw. Engage one or
them for chipping, chiselling, scraping, prying, two threads, make sure the screw is going
digging, gouging, testing circuits, making holes, in straight, then take your fingers away. You
stirring paint, propping doors open, and taking can put your fingers on the shank to help
the lids off cans. guide and hold the screwdriver. But the main
action is on the handle, which should be large
When used improperly, workers have suffered enough to allow enough grip and torque to
eye injuries from flying fragments of screwdrivers drive the screw.
struck with a hammer.
• Make sure that the screwdriver handle is
However, the most common abuse of the intact, free of splits or cracks, and clean of
screwdriver is using one that doesn’t fit or match grease and oil.
the screw. That means using a screwdriver too
big or small for the screw or not matched to the • You should only need enough force to keep
screw head. the screwdriver in contact with the screw.
With a properly sized and drilled hole, the
The results are cuts and puncture wounds from screw will draw itself into the material with
slipping screwdrivers. minimum pressure and guidance.
• Don’t hold the material in one hand and
Identify controls use the screwdriver with the other. The
screwdriver can slip and cut your hand.
• Use the right screwdriver for the job. This • Discard screwdrivers with chipped handles,
means the right kind of tip—slot, Robertson, bent shanks, and twisted or excessively
Phillips, whatever. It also means use the right rounded tips.
size of screwdriver. One that is too big or
small for the screw can only lead to trouble. • Don’t use bench grinders to restore tips. The
You’ll chew up the screw head, damage the excessive heat can destroy temper and reduce
screwdriver, gouge the material, or scrape the hardness of shank and tip. Filing should be
your knuckles. done by hand.
NOTE: All crosspoint screws are not designed • Use screwdrivers with large handles for better
to be driven by a Phillips screwdriver. Phillips grip.
screws and drivers are only one type among • Don’t use pliers on the handle of a screwdriver
several crosspoint systems. They are not for more power. To remove stubborn screws,
interchangeable (see image below). use a screwdriver with a square shank
designed for use with a wrench.

Demonstrate
Review the types of screwdrivers used by your
crew.
Inspect a few for evidence of wear, damage, or
misuse.

Phillips Frearson Pozidriv Torq-set

(Reed)

Techniques and Tools 87

Electric tools—Basic safety
List electrical hazards on site. • Check for electrical wires or equipment before
drilling, nailing, cutting, or sawing into walls,
ceilings, and floors.
___________________________________
CORDS
___________________________________ • Make sure that tool cords, extension cords,
and plugs are in good condition. Check cords
for cracking, fraying, and other signs of wear.
___________________________________
Check plugs for cracks and missing, loose, or
faulty prongs.
• Do not use cords that are defective or have
Explain dangers been improperly repaired.
• Use only 3-pronged (grounded) extension
Using electricity on site can be dangerous. cords.
Contact with electrical current can cause
electrocution, shock, and burns. Electricity can
• Make sure that extension cords are the right
gauge for the job to prevent overheating,
also cause your muscles to contract, which can
voltage drops, and tool burnout—12 gauge is
lead to a fall.
ideal.
Take special care when working with:
• Use cords fitted with dead-front plugs. These
1. Tools present less risk of shock and short-circuit
2. Cords than open-front plugs.
3. Panels and Generators. • Protect cords from foot and equipment traffic.
Keep cords away from heat sources, water, oil,
sharp edges, and moving parts of equipment.
Identify controls
PANELS AND GENERATORS
The basic rule is simple: • Temporary panel boards must be securely
Consider all electrical wires and equipment mounted in a lockable enclosure protected
energized until they are tested and proven from weather and water.
otherwise. • Panel boards must be accessible to workers
and kept clear of obstructions. Receptacles
TOOLS
must be protected by a GFCI.
• Inspect tools before each use. Any shock or
tingle, no matter how small, means that the
• Portable generators must be labelled
NEUTRAL BONDED TO FRAME to ensure
tool or equipment needs to be checked.
that cord-connected tools or equipment are
• Take defective tools out of service grounded. Proper grounding and bonding will
immediately and tag it out of service. prevent shock and electrocution.
• Make sure the casings of double-insulated
tools are not cracked or broken. Demonstrate
• Use only tools that are polarized or double-
insulated. With your crew, inspect sample tools and cords
• Always use a Type A ground fault circuit used on the job.
interrupter (GFCI) with portable electric Show how a circuit tester and GFCI can be used
tools operated outdoors or in damp or wet to test cords, tools, and outlets.
locations. GFCIs detect current leaking to
Point out labels indicating double insulation or
ground from a tool or cord and shut off power
neutral bonded to frame.
before damage or injury can occur.

88 Techniques and Tools

Electric tools—Drills
Explain dangers An impact or hammer drill is what you need for
work such as drilling large holes in concrete or
If you have to push a tool beyond its capacity, you rock with a carboloy bit.
can burn out the motor and injure yourself.
Engagement Ring -
Leaning into a drill and pushing too hard is Set for either continuous
dangerous. If you lose balance or control, you or hammer drilling.
can fall or strain your neck, arm, and shoulder
muscles.
Adjustable
Bit Stop Shock-Absorbing
Identify controls Carboloy or
Handle

Masonry Bit

You need a drill powerful enough for the job. And

you need a bit that is both sharp and suited to
the job. Follow these safe work practices when using
drills.
1/4-inch or 3/8-inch drills are ideal for light-duty
tasks such as driving screws into wood or drilling • Heavy-duty drills or hammer drills have a low
small holes. rpm and high horsepower rating. Take a break
when you have to, especially when you’re up
Chuck on a ladder or scaffold. You may even need
Jaw Air Vents
help with some kinds of drilling.
• Check your balance and grip. Sudden torque
Switch can twist your arm and throw you off balance.
Lock
Trigger Switch
• When drilling deep holes, occasionally
withdraw. This clears cuttings from the hole.
Reverse Switch • When you’re drilling on loose material,
securing the work is half the battle.
• HANDS OFF. Don’t hold the work in your
1/2-inch or 3/4-inch drills are heavy-duty and hand, on your knee, or against your boot while
are designed to be used with two hands. They you’re drilling. Clamp small pieces in a vice.
have an auxiliary handle that you can screw into • When you’re drilling, don’t push or lean too
the top. This is what you want for drilling into hard on the drill. You can damage the tool or
concrete, steel, heavy timbers, etc. the work, or be thrown off balance if the drill
A heavier drill is also useful for hole saw bits twists and grabs.
and spade bits where the blade of the bit is • Punching a layout hole or drilling a pilot hole
considerably wider than the shank. These can make your work more accurate, efficient,
attachments require the power and control you and safe.
get with a two-handled drill.

Demonstrate
Auxiliary Handle
Adjustable
Bit Stop Air Vents Have sample drills available to demonstrate while
you talk.
Jaw Review the types of drilling done by your crew
Chuck
Switch Lock
and inspect sample drills and bits used on the job.
Trigger
Switch

Techniques and Tools 89

Electric tools—Circular saws
Explain dangers • Do not overextend your body when cutting.
Position yourself so that you are in control of
The circular saw is one of the most widely used the saw and the material.
portable power tools on construction sites. If not • Never use your knee or foot to support the
used correctly, it can cause serious injuries. material you’re cutting.
Kickback is the most common problem. It can • Never wedge, wire, or jam the guard to
happen to even the most careful users. You can prevent it from working. This is a dangerous
minimize the chance of kickback by: practice that could cause serious injury.
• Properly setting the blade depth • Never fasten the trigger’s safety lock in the
• Maintaining a sharp blade “on” position. The purpose of this feature is to
minimize accidental starts.
• Standing in the right position
• Never pull the saw backward when cutting.
• Ensuring that the material is held securely.
• Always use the proper blade for the type of
material and the type of cut.
Identify controls • Before setting the saw down, make sure the
guard is in place. If you don’t, the saw could
• Always wear the proper clothing and gear run across your hand or foot.
when operating the saw. This includes
• Never carry the saw by the cord or with your
– safety glasses finger on the trigger.
– hearing protection
– a dust mask Demonstrate
– appropriate footwear.
Have a sample saw available to demonstrate while
• Avoid wearing loose clothing and jewelry. If you talk.
your hair is shoulder length or longer, tie it
back so it doesn’t get caught in the saw. Inspect the saw. Identify all the parts and safety
features of the saw and make sure they are
• If you are cutting pressure-treated wood or working (see diagram below).
cedar, you should use a NIOSH-approved
N95 filtering face mask or a more protective Demonstrate how to use the saw, as well as
respirator. techniques for holding material, by making cuts in
different positions and with different materials.
• Read all the safety materials included in the
manufacturer’s instructions before using your
Trigger Switch
saw. Pull “On”-Release “Off”
• Always unplug the saw when changing blades,
Lever for Retracting Motor Housing
cleaning the saw, or making adjustments. Lower Blade Guard

• Never use the saw near water.

Electric
• Ensure the extension cord does not run across Cord Bevel Cutting Angle
Adjustment Knob
walkways where it can be a tripping hazard or
Sawdust
get damaged. Ejection Chute Knob
Handle
• Ensure that the extension cord is in good Main Shoe
condition, and that the plug has a ground pin.
Front Clamp
• The blade should extend only 1/8 inch below Screw

the piece of material that you are cutting. The Lower Blade Cutting Depth
Guard Adjustment Knob
Shoe
risk of kickback and injury increases as more
blade is exposed below the material.

90 Techniques and Tools

Electric tools—Sabre saws
Explain dangers • Never reach under, around, or behind the
material being cut.
Sabre saws (also known as portable jigsaws) are • Don’t try to make inside or pocket cuts
used to cut holes in ceilings, floors, and walls and without first drilling a lead hole.
to make short, straight cuts. The sabre saw cuts • When the motor is running, working a blade
on the upstroke only. in or out of a cut or lead hole can cause
A reciprocating saw is a heavier type of sabre saw kickback.
with a larger and more rugged blade. It must be • Let the saw and the blade do most of the
held with both hands to absorb vibration and to work. Don’t force the saw. The machine should
avoid accidental contact. turn with ease. If you have to push the saw,
Be aware of the following hazards when using a the blade is too dull or the stock is too heavy
sabre saw: for the saw.
• If you don’t use a sabre saw correctly, it • Never put the saw down until the blade and
can kick back, injuring you and damaging motor have stopped.
materials.
• If you don’t check out what’s behind your Demonstrate
work, you could also saw into wires, cables, or
pipes. Have a sample saw available to demonstrate while
• Don’t use this saw for continuous or heavy you talk. Inspect sabre saws used on the job (see
cutting. Use a circular saw. diagrams below).
Review situations in which this type of saw should
Identify controls or should not be used. Demonstrate external and
inside cuts.
• Wear eye protection. You should wear safety Switch
glasses with side shields. Even better are Unplug the saw
goggles for dust or a face shield. before making
repairs or
• Use two hands on the saw to maintain control, adjustments.
absorb vibration, and avoid accidental
contact. Air Vents
• Always make sure you know what’s on the
Chuck
other side of the surface being cut. Beware of Auxiliary
Handle
sawing into wires, cables, and pipes.
• Make sure that the saw will clear the bench, Shoe or
Slot for
trestle, or other support. Base
Edge Guide

• Use clamping material. It is not only safe but Jigsaw

also reduces vibration and makes cutting
more accurate.
• Don’t start cutting if the blade is in contact
with the work. Let the saw reach full power
before it touches the work.
• Hold the base or shoe of the saw in firm
contact with the work. This keeps the blade
cutting straight up and down and prevents it
from twisting or breaking.
• Keep your free hand away from the front of Reciprocating Saw
the saw.

Techniques and Tools 91

Chainsaws
Explain dangers OPERATING PROCEDURES
• During start-up, keep everyone at least six
Kickback can occur when the chain becomes feet away, place the chainsaw on solid ground,
snagged and suddenly stops moving. The change and secure it with one foot in the rear handle.
in momentum causes the chainsaw to move in the Grasp the top handle with one hand, apply the
opposite direction, towards the operator. chain brake, and set the throttle lock. Pull the
The chain runs at very high speeds, and the recoil handle towards your chest.
cutting blade is extremely sharp. Each tooth is • Never “drop start” or “throw start” a chainsaw
designed to remove a 1/4-inch chip of material. and don’t let the cord snap back to the starter.
Chainsaws are extremely loud, and parts can Let it idle for a minute or two to warm up.
become very hot. • Hold the saw firmly with both hands and keep
Chainsaws produce a lot of vibration, both from your feet firmly planted before you start to cut.
the engine and from the process of cutting. Stand to the left of the saw and hold your left
arm straight. Activate the throttle with your
Chainsaws with combustible engines produce right hand. (Reverse for left-handed saws.)
toxic exhaust fumes. The gasoline-oil mixture can
catch on fire if spilled while filling a hot engine. • To prevent kickback, cut only one thing at
a time. Use the bumper spike to rest the
chainsaw on top of what you’re cutting and
Identify controls allow the sharp teeth of the chain and the
power of the engine to do the cutting. Don’t
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT force it.
• Wear eye protection that is CSA or ANSI- • Bring the saw to full operating speed before
approved. A face shield may be required. starting the cut. If you feel resistance or you
• Use gloves, a hard hat, safety boots, earplugs need to apply extra pressure in order to cut,
or earmuffs, and leg protection. the chain may be dull. Using a dull chain is
not only a safety hazard, but it also increases
• Never wear loose clothing, unbuttoned your risk of developing hand-arm vibration
jackets, flared sleeves and cuffs, scarves, syndrome (HAVS).
tie strings, cords, chains, jewelry, etc. when
operating a chainsaw. • Never pull the chainsaw blade towards you and
don’t operate it above shoulder height.
MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES
• Apply the chain brake and shut the motor off
• Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance before setting the chainsaw down or moving it
instructions for your specific chainsaw. Keep a long distances. Allow it to cool off.
copy of the owner’s manual on hand.
• Use a bar guard to cover the chain when
• Inspect the chainsaw before using it. Make carrying or transporting it. Carry the saw
sure that the guide bar is tight, the chain is facing downwards and to your side with the
snug, the machine is lubricated, and the teeth bar point behind you.
are sharp. Check the drive links, sprockets,
chain catch, and cutters for damage. Run the • During transit, use a carrying case if possible
saw at half throttle and apply the chain brake and secure it to prevent movement. Never
to make sure it works properly. transport a chainsaw in the passenger’s seat of
a vehicle. Where possible, transport it in a well-
• Never use a chainsaw that has damaged parts. vented cabinet or in the open air.
• Never alter any of the safety features such
as the chain brake, throttle trigger interlock, Demonstrate
ramped depth gauges, etc.
• Make sure the ratio of gas to oil meets the Show workers the proper way to start the
manufacturer’s recommendations. chainsaw and to hold it while cutting.

92 Techniques and Tools

Nail guns
Explain dangers The following safe work practices can help
prevent nail gun injuries:
Nail guns are the most common source of struck- • Always wear the proper personal protective
by injuries in Ontario’s homebuilding sector, equipment—including eye protection—when
accounting for close to 100 lost-time injuries you are using the nail gun.
(LTIs) each year. • Always keep your hands and fingers off the
Nail guns are very powerful and very dangerous if trigger when you are not using the gun. Never
not used properly. They have the capacity to fire carry the gun with your finger on the trigger.
several nails per second. • Before doing any sort of maintenance on
Two types of nail guns commonly used on your nail gun, whether reloading it or clearing
construction sites are: a jam, disconnect it from its air source or
1. Pneumatic (compressed air) remove the cartridge.

2. Powder-actuated (explosive cartridge). • Keep your hand and fingers well away from
the nail’s path. Use clamps if necessary.
Puncture wounds are the most common type of
injury, often caused because the bump or trigger • Never point the gun at another person or
safety was disabled. yourself.

While puncture wounds to the extremities such as • Don’t use a nail gun if you’re working in an
hands and feet are the most common, puncture awkward position. This makes the gun harder
wounds to places like the head or neck can cause to control and increases the chance of injury.
more severe injuries and result in death. • When you’re not using the gun, engage the
trigger safety device or disconnect the gun
from its power source.
Identify controls
• Never modify safety features, such as tying
Nail gun safety can be increased if you know the or wiring the nose contact in the activated
difference between trigger types. position.
• Contact triggers allow the gun to fire any • Only let people who have received training
time the trigger is held down and the nose is operate a nail gun.
depressed against a surface. • Always use the proper type of nails in the gun.
• Sequential triggers only fire when the nose is • Never overextend your reach when you are
depressed against a surface before squeezing using the gun. Hold it firmly in your hand.
the trigger. To fire a second nail you must
• If you have to work at height, stand on a
release and press the trigger and/or release
scaffold or other secure work platform rather
and depress the nose.
than on a ladder.
Sequential-trip triggers are much safer than
• Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
contact-trip triggers, which can fire accidentally if
the nail gun recoils or the operator bumps against
a surface or co-worker. Demonstrate
Studies show that using sequential-trip triggers
can cut injury rates in half without affecting With a nail gun currently being used on site,
productivity. demonstrate a trigger type while you talk.
Nail guns may speed up the work, but one Show your crew how to inspect the nail gun to
careless motion is all it takes to lose an eye or put ensure that it is in proper working condition and
a nail through your hand. that all the safety features are intact and working.
A copy of the manufacturer’s instructions should
be available on site for reference. Show your crew
where it’s located.

Techniques and Tools 93

Floor sealing
Explain dangers • The SDS will list the proper type of personal
protective equipment (PPE) to use when
Workers have been killed and critically injured handling the product. It may include:
when they apply coatings to floors in basements – Supplied-air respirator
and other enclosed areas. – Impermeable gloves (e.g., neoprene)
Hazards include – Eye protection (e.g., chemical goggles)
• Flash fires and explosions – Coveralls or other clothing to protect the
• Sensitization skin.
• Asphyxiation. • Keep the area clear of workers who are not
Most coatings contain petroleum products that protected by PPE. Use barriers and warning
are extremely flammable. Applying these coatings signs if necesary.
with a spray or roller can create an explosive • Follow good hygiene practices—wash hands
atmosphere. and face before eating, drinking, or smoking.
Some coatings may contain isocyanates, which FIRE
are irritants that can be absorbed through the • Because most of these products are
eyes, skin, and lungs. They can cause respiratory flammable, make sure that any ignition
sensitization and asthma. sources in the work area are turned off.
A worker can become sensitized at any time • Never smoke when applying floor coatings.
from inhaling or getting isocyanates on the skin. Air contaminated by coatings can also be
After that, any exposure can lead to a very severe ignited by pilot lights on gas appliances or
asthma attack. Isocyanates on the skin can cause furnaces and sparks from electric switches.
skin irritation as well.
• Store materials in tightly sealed containers
Many floor coatings, adhesives, and sealants when not in use.
are also toxic and can cause asphyxiation. This
means that your body can’t get enough oxygen VENTILATION
to survive. Asphyxiation can make you lose When laying or finishing floors in residential
consciousness and die. basements:
Two causes of asphyxiation are: • Test—make sure that the basement
1. Oxygen in the air you breathe has been atmosphere is not toxic, oxygen-deficient,
reduced by the products you’re using. oxygen-enriched, or flammable. Testing
should be done by someone competent to
2. The products have poisoned your blood so use the appropriate testing equipment.
that it can’t carry oxygen through your body.
• Ventilate—open doors and windows and, if
necessary, use fans to exhaust and clear the
Identify controls air.
• Monitor—Keep testing the atmosphere as
WHMIS
long as people are working there.
• The Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System (WHMIS) is your first line
of defence. Read the WHMIS label on the Demonstrate
product you’re using to learn the hazards.
With your crew, review the information on the
• More information is available in the safety WHMIS label and SDS for a coating or other
data sheet (SDS) that comes along with the product you typically use on the job.
product. Learn about the health effects, the
ways to control exposure, and the handling Ask workers if they have received WHMIS
and storage procedures. training. If not, arrange for them to take it.

94 Techniques and Tools

Fire extinguishers
List fire extinguisher locations on site. The goal is to extinguish the flames at their
source. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
and direct the spray back and forth in a rapid
___________________________________ sweeping motion until the fire is extinguished.
Fire extinguishers are classified according to their
___________________________________ capacity to fight specific kinds of fires.
Class A – for fires in ordinary combustible
___________________________________ materials such as wood and paper where you
need a quenching, cooling effect.
Class B – for flammable liquid and gas
fires such as oil, gasoline, paint, and grease
where you need oxygen exclusion or flame
Explain dangers interruption.
Class C – for fires involving electrical wiring
Fire is a threat on many worksites, especially and equipment where you need a non-
where open flames, flammable products, and conductive extinguishing agent.
flammable materials are used.
Class D – for fires in combustible metals such
Welding, flame cutting, and thermal roofing are as sodium, magnesium, and potassium.
obvious examples. But fire hazards are connected
with many paints, solvents, and adhesives as well. For most construction operations, a 4A40BC
extinguisher will do the job.

Identify controls Once you’ve discharged an extinguisher, report it

immediately to your supervisor.
Every worker who may be required to use fire
extinguishing equipment shall be trained in its Demonstrate
use. (O.Reg. 213/91, s. 52(1.1))
Fire extinguishers on construction sites must be On a 4A40BC extinguisher, explain the principal
features—label, nozzle, gauge, pin, and handle.
1. Accessible
Show how to hold and aim the extinguisher
2. Inspected regularly properly.
3. Promptly refilled after use. Show your crew some of the fire extinguisher
Extinguishers should be located: locations at your site.
• Where flammable materials are stored,
handled, or used
• Where temporary oil-fired or gas-fired
equipment is being used
• Where welding or open-flame cutting is being
done
• On each storey of an enclosed building being
constructed or renovated
• In shops for at least every 300 square metres
(approx. 3,000 square feet) of floor area.
Extinguishers have a very short duration of
discharge—usually less than 60 seconds. Within
that limited duration, you’ve got to use the
extinguisher effectively.

Techniques and Tools 95

Compressed gas cylinders
Explain dangers • Never transport cylinders in the trunk of a car
or in a closed van. Escaping gas can collect
Compressed gas cylinders can take off and in these confined spaces, which increases the
explode like rockets. But fire and explosion aren’t risk of explosion or asphyxiation.
the only hazards. • Connect and disconnect cylinders in a well-
Leaking gas can make you dizzy or unconscious. ventilated area.
Cylinders are also heavy and awkward to handle. • Keep valves closed tighly and cylinders
But our work would be difficult without capped when not in use.
compressed gas. So we have to know how to • Store cylinders in a secure area—preferably
transport, store, and use the cylinders safely. outdoors.
• Keep cylinders away from heat, ignition
Identify controls sources, and flammable materials such as
wood or fuel.
This is the WHMIS • Don’t store cylinders in an area where they
hazard symbol for could be knocked over by moving equipment,
compressed gas. struck by falling objects, or damaged.
Cylinders are • Keep cylinders away from areas such as
also labelled with elevators, traffic routes, and exit routes.
their contents Leaking gas or a fire can block escape routes.
and handling
• Chalk “MT” on empty cylinders that need to
instructions.
be returned to the supplier. Close valves and
Read the WHMIS replace protective caps.
label for each
• Keep empty and full cylinders separated.
of the different
cylinders you • Only cylinders that are currently being used
use. Don’t accept or use any cylinder that’s not (i.e., hooked up to equipment) should be kept
properly labelled. inside a building or structure.
• Don’t store cylinders of different gases in the
TIPS FOR HANDLING CYLINDERS SAFELY
same area. Keep them separate.
• Secure cylinders that are in use with rope,
wire, or chain to keep them upright.
Demonstrate
• Keep cylinders upright when you use, store, or
transport them to keep the safety relief valve Present this safety talk near fuel gas cylinders
in the vapour space above the liquid gas. on site if possible. Review the labels on these
• Remove gauges and other attachments cylinders with your crew.
before moving cylinders. Inspect the cylinders on site. Are they properly
• Never drop cylinders or let them bang into used and stored?
each other. Inspect a sample cylinder and valve system for
• Move cylinders using a hand truck or dolly. damage, leaks, and wear. Show how to inspect for
Never roll cylinders like logs or hoist them by leaks using soapy water or a leak detector.
their collars. Check if workers require any special training to
• Use a hoisting cradle to lift and lower work with the compressed gas? For example,
cylinders from one level to another. Never use anyone who uses or handles propane must hold
a magnet or sling for hoisting them. a record of training (ROT) for that purpose
• Never store cylinders in enclosed, unvented recognized by the Technical Standards and Safety
places such as trailers. Association (TSSA).

96 Techniques and Tools

Propane
Explain dangers
Explosion and asphyxiation are the main risks
with propane. Asphyxiation means loss of
consciousness and suffocation.
Propane gas by itself is odourless. But suppliers
add a strong-smelling chemical to the gas so
that you can smell leaks. The smell is like rotten
cabbage.
Propane gas is heavier than air. If it leaks from
equipment or cylinders, it can accumulate in low- Hose: 15 ft min.
lying areas such as basements, pits, and trenches 75 ft max.
and displace breathable air. If you enter that area
you may be overcome and lose consciousness. • Propane cylinders that are connected to
heaters must be secured and kept at least
Propane will explode if ignited. Simply turning
10 ft (3 m) away from them. The hose length
on a light switch or an electric drill can ignite
must be between 15 and 75 ft (4.6 and 23 m).
propane in high concentrations such as in a
(See diagram above.)
basement or trench.
Propane-fired equipment releases carbon
• Never tamper with the controls or safety
devices of cylinders and equipment and
monoxide (CO). Even in small doses, CO can kill
handle properly to prevent leaks.
you. It’s a clear, colourless gas that you can’t
smell or taste. The first signs of CO poisoning are • Connect and disconnect cylinders in a well-
headache and fatigue. ventilated area and always close valves tightly.
• Don’t let propane saturate your clothing. It
Identify controls may not feel or smell unusual, but clothing
can remain highly flammable for some time
• Ensure that any person who connects, after exposure. Saturated clothing should be
disconnects, or operates propane cylinders aired outside. Never put them in the dryer.
holds a record of training (ROT) for that • If you smell leaking propane or if propane-
purpose recognized by the Technical fired equipment goes out in a confined space
Standards and Safety Association (TSSA). or low-lying area, act quickly.
• Don’t store propane cylinders inside. Any – Shut off the gas and leave the area.
cylinders that are not being used (i.e., hooked
– Don’t go back to re-light the equipment.
up to equipment) should be kept outside.
– Prevent anyone from entering the area and
• Always have a 4A40BC-rated fire extinguisher inform your supervisor.
within 6 m (20 ft) of each worker using
propane-fired equipment.
• Unless designed for horizontal use, cylinders Demonstrate
must be transported, used, and stored in an
upright position to keep the safety relief valve Review the safety data sheet (SDS) for propane
in the vapour space above the liquid gas. with your crew and show them where to find it on
site for future reference.
• Never expose your skin to liquid propane. It is
extremely cold under pressure and can cause Review the on-site procedures for storing,
frostbite or cryo-burns. Wear gloves, eye handling, and using propane (refer to the safety
protection, long sleeves, and pants. talk on compressed gas cylinders).

• Use a CO monitor when burning propane. Review the signs of CO poisoning with the crew
(refer to the safety talk on carbon monoxide).

Techniques and Tools 97

Formwork—Placing concrete
Explain dangers
When it comes to placing concrete, the most
important consideration is to ensure that
formwork and falsework are complete.
Some of the major hazards associated with
placing concrete include
• Overloading formwork and falsework,
especially if concrete piles up in one location
or is poured too fast
• Working at dangerous heights near
perimeters of decks, stairs, and shaft
openings, or accessing platforms on wall and
column forms • Inspect forms before the pour to ensure they
• Electrocution and shock if power tools, are free of debris.
extension cords, and other electrical • Ensure the area around the pour is clean to
equipment are used near wet concrete avoid slips and trips.
or other wet areas. Concrete buckets and
concrete pumps can also make contact with
• Always follow the specified pour rate,
techniques, and procedures.
overhead powerlines.
• Overhead powerlines, being struck by • Monitor the condition of forms before pouring
and as concrete is placed. Bulging, slipping,
equipment, and pinch points when receiving
uplifting, sagging, etc., are signs that the pour
concrete pumps or buckets
should be stopped immediately.
• Skin burns, severe allergic reactions, and
dryness if skin is exposed to wet concrete,
• If using a scaffold to access the top of a form,
ensure it has been properly inspected by a
if clothing becomes soaked, or if concrete
designated competent worker or engineer.
enters your boots
• Slips and trips due to poor housekeeping • Always use 3-point contact to climb the
scaffold ladder.
• Cuts and impalement when rebar is not
properly protected with caps.
• If guardrails are missing from the scaffold, you
must use a travel restraint system.
• Power supplies and extension cords should
Identify controls not be used unless they are equipped with
ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).
• Have guardrails in place around perimeters,
stairs and shafts, and work platforms on walls • Tape the top of your boots to your pants to
and column forms. prevent wet concrete from getting in.

• Ensure that formwork has been inspected by • If your clothing becomes soaked, change
a professional engineer or by a competent clothes and clean your skin immediately.
worker designated by the professional • Workers not involved in the pour should be
engineer before the placement of concrete. kept away from the area.
• Make sure all rebar that is not part of the pour
is properly capped to avoid cuts, abrasions, Demonstrate
and impalement.
• Before pouring, have extra shores and other If the situation allows, take the crew to an area
materials readily available in case of an where forms are being installed to observe the
emergency. process. Identify GFCI-equipped circuits.

98 Techniques and Tools

Formwork—Stripping forms
These are some injuries that workers have Identify controls
experienced while stripping formwork.
• Maintain signs and barriers to prohibit
1. A worker strained the tendon in his left
unauthorized entry into the stripping area.
forearm while stripping and moving forms.
2. A worker fell six feet from a scaffold • Ensure that exposed rebar is properly capped
platform and severely injured his leg. to avoid cuts, abrasions, and impalement.
3. A worker was struck by a piece of plywood, • If guardrails must be removed, make sure
which hit his hard hat and twisted his head. everyone working in the area uses a fall
protection system. Don’t take shortcuts.
• Only strip what you can clean up during the
same work shift.
Explain dangers • Ensure bracing is sufficient before breaking
formwork from concrete.
Formwork stripping is one of the most dangerous
operations in concrete work.
• Never climb partially stripped formwork to
reach high areas. Use a work platform.
Hazards can include the following.
• Make sure that work platforms are fully
FALLS planked and have proper guardrails—including
• Panels and other materials could fall and toe boards—for work over 2.4 metres. Planks
strike workers during stripping. for work platforms less than 2.4 metres high
must be at least 460 millimeters wide.
• Stacked materials could fall and strike
workers. • Never lean material against the wall. Place it
neatly on the ground in a stable position.
• Workers could fall when formwork breaks free
or if forms are being stripped at dangerous • Never throw stripped material to the ground
heights. from a work platform. Always lower it by
passing it to a co-worker or using another
• Materials could fall to lower levels and injure safe method.
workers or pedestrians.
• Ensure the stripping area is clean to avoid
• Poor housekeeping can cause slips and trips. slips and trips. Inspect columns, walls, and
STRUCK-BYS other structures and remove any loose
• Workers could be struck by loose concrete, concrete or debris.
rubble, debris, or over-pour left on columns, • When stripping, always wear gloves and
walls, and other structures. These hazards safety eyewear to protect against cuts,
could also result in eye injuries. pinches, scrapes, and injuries from debris.
• Sharp edges on formwork, protruding nails, • Never alter tools.
snap ties, conduit, and bolts can cause • Use carts or cradles to move material.
pinches, cuts, scrapes, abrasions, and other
injuries. • Never strip forms unless you have verified that
the concrete strength is sufficient.
• Protruding rebar can cause cuts, abrasions,
and impalement.
MSDs
Demonstrate
• Workers can injure their joints, muscles, and Take the crew to an area where stripping will be
bones from reaching, prying, pulling, pushing, done. Highlight some of the hazards and identify
lifting, and carrying heavy forms, panels, and the controls that will be used, such as signs and
other components. barriers, methods for lowering material, and
proper stacking and storage of stripped material.

Techniques and Tools 99

Flying forms—Struck-by hazards
Explain dangers
Flying forms are popular because they can save
time and, in some cases, are safer than using
built-in-place methods.
Although there are some advantages to using
flying forms, there are also some disadvantages.
Flying forms have some significant hazards
associated with them that can lead to serious
injury if proper precautions aren’t taken.
Being hit or struck by falling material or moving
forms is one of the main hazards associated with
flying forms. These types of struck-by hazards
can cause serious injuries.
Flying forms are very heavy moving objects. If • Ensure that each guardrail has a toeboard, in
one hits you, it can cause cuts, broken bones, addition to the other required components,
contusions, or amputations. to prevent material from falling off the work
Here are some scenarios that can lead to a form, surface.
or something on the form, hitting a worker. • Replace guardrails and shoring immediately
• A worker is positioned between an incoming after the flying form is flown out.
form and a column or wall. • If guardrails have been removed, workers
• The form is improperly or inadequately braced must wear a personal fall protection system
or supported. attached to an individual anchor that is
independent of the flying form.
• A form that is not properly secured can roll
off the edge and strike workers below. • During the stripping process, if the flying form
has been lowered and left on rollers, make
• Loose material or equipment on a flying form sure it is secured to the structure to prevent it
can fall and strike workers below. from rolling off.
• Be aware of your surroundings and never
Identify controls place yourself between the formwork and
column or wall.
• Flying forms must be designed by a
professional engineer and constructed,
• Hoisting and moving forms safely requires
clear and reliable communication. Hand
hoisted, moved, and set according to the
signals along with direct radio or cell phone
instructions of the designer or manufacturer.
communication between the signaller and the
Always follow these instructions.
crane operator should be used.
• Put danger signs and barriers in place before
moving any forms so that all workers and the
public are aware of what is happening and are Demonstrate
protected. Dangerous areas include the work
area below the flying form, the floor area from If the situation allows, take the crew to an area
where the form is pushed out, and the top where flying forms are being placed so everyone
floor area where the form will be received. can observe the process.
• Make sure all flying forms are free of loose The manufacturer’s instructions should be
material. available on site. Show your crew the location.
• Ensure that the landing area is free of debris Show them the components of a guardrail
so you and other workers don’t slip and fall. system, focusing on the toeboard and its purpose.

100 Techniques and Tools

Slips and falls—Unloading structural steel
Explain dangers
Unloading structural steel can be dangerous if not
done properly. Slips and falls are common causes
of injury. The risk is greater under the following
conditions.
• There are no access points or the access
points are in poor condition.
• It is wet or slippery outside due to snow, ice,
or rain.
Passive fall protection can include the following:
• The loads are unstable.
• Decrease the fall distances and allow for
• You are working at heights. easier access. Build two access scaffolds
in the unloading area, leaving just enough
Identify controls room for the truck to pull through with the
flatbed positioned between the scaffolding.
When climbing on or off a flatbed trailer: Workers can access the load without active
fall protection being anchored overhead.
• Remove any mud, snow, ice, grease, or any
other substance from your boots. You can also use two stationary flatbeds
instead of scaffolds. Make sure the gap
• Make sure the flatbed’s running board, tread, between the platforms and the trailer doesn’t
step, foothold, and platform are clean.
become a tripping hazard.
• Always face the flatbed and maintain 3-point • Ask the fabricator or supplier to place the
contact.
steel on a lifting rack. Workers can use a
• Don’t climb down with anything in your free crane to unload the steel with the lifting
hand. Put it on the vehicle floor and reach for points on the rack rather than climbing onto
it when you get to the ground. the flatbed. Ensure the crane is capable of
• Place the arc or middle of your foot onto the hoisting the entire load. Spreader beams may
step or foothold with your heel just behind. be required to prevent damaging the rack.
• Ensure that you have a solid grip on the • Create bundles from both sides of the
handles before stepping up. trailer. Position workers on ladders or access
platforms on either side of the load and feed
• Always be aware of your surroundings. slings from one side to the other, creating a
• Use an appropriate access ladder—some basket or bundle. With the shipping chains in
ladders are designed with hooks that attach place, use a crane to add tension to the slings
to the sides of a flatbed. but do not hoist the load.
If the load requires you to be more than 3 m If a competent worker determines that the
(10 ft) from the ground, you must use a fall load is stable, remove the shipping chains and
protection method. If possible, use a passive fall perform the lift. If not stable, put the shipping
protection method rather than an active one. chains back on the load under the bundle and
An active fall protection method such as a repeat the steps.
fall arrest system requires you to be anchored
overhead, which can create other hazards such as Demonstrate
lack of mobility. The load could shift and contact
the fall arrest system, leaving you stuck. The To indicate that fall protection is required, place
rigged load or the crane could also contact the marker flags at the 3-m point in the loading area.
fall arrest system. Remind workers that they have the right to refuse
work if they feel it is too dangerous.

Techniques and Tools 101

Struck-by injuries—Compressor tools
Explain dangers • Never use an air compressor to blow away
dust and dirt. At only 40 psi, compressed air
Tools that are powered by compressed air are can accelerate debris such as metal shavings
fast, powerful, and ideal for repetitive tasks like or wood chips to over 70 mph (113 kph). This
nailing. is enough force to penetrate the skin.

However, nail guns are the most common source • Always secure hose connections with wire
of struck-by injuries in Ontario’s homebuilding or safety clips to prevent the hose from
sector. Each year, workers being struck by nails, whipping—except when automatic cut-off
brads, and tacks account for close to 100 lost- couplers are used.
time injuries (LTIs). • Choose nail guns that have sequential
The most common parts of the body affected by triggers rather than contact triggers. Contact
these struck-by injuries are the fingers, hands, triggers can accidentally fire if the trigger is
and eyes. pressed and the nose accidentally touches
anything. Studies have shown that using
Severe nail gun injuries have resulted in blindness, sequential triggers can cut injury rates in half
brain damage, bone fractures, and even death. without affecting productivity.
When using high-powered pneumatic tools, even • Never hold or carry a nail gun with your finger
the smallest mishandling can cause injury to on the trigger.
workers or damage to equipment.
• Know where the joists or studs are before
nailing through plywood or particle board.
Identify controls Nail guns can fire nails straight through this
type of wood.
• Read all the safety materials and follow • Never point a nail gun towards anybody or
the manufacturer’s instructions when using yourself, even if you think it’s not loaded.
compressor tools. Workers should have some
training on the specific tool they will be using. • Keep your hand away from the spot where
you’re nailing.
• Ensure tools are in proper working order.
Remove broken or malfunctioning tools from • Check surfaces before nailing into them.
service immediately. Look for knots, other nails, straps, hangers, or
gusset plates that can cause recoil or ricochet.
• Never modify the safety features of a tool or
compressor. • Match the speed rating of saw blades,
grinding wheels, cut-off wheels, etc. to the
• Wear all required personal protective tool speed. Too fast or too slow a rotation can
equipment when using high-pressure tools. damage the wheels, release fragments, and
This includes safety glasses to protect against injure workers.
flying particles from both the front and sides.
• Adjust the air pressure to the psi Demonstrate
recommended by the manufacturer for the
task you’re doing and the tool you’re using.
Never exceed the maximum recommended air Demonstrate how to use the specific type of
pressure. compressor tools you are using on the jobsite.
Give workers an opportunity to handle the tools
• Disconnect the air hose before reloading, and provide feedback. Show workers where to
cleaning, or clearing a jam. find the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Turn off the air pressure and safety release Discuss awkward working positions such as toe
any pressure remaining in the system when nailing and working overhead.
it is not in use or before changing pneumatic
tools or attachments. Encourage workers to report injuries and close
calls associated with using compressor tools.
• Never “kink” a hose to stop air flow.

102 Techniques and Tools

Struck-by injuries—Electric saws
Explain dangers
Electric saws such as table saws, chainsaws, and
circular saws are some of the most widely used
power tools on construction sites. They’re also
among the most dangerous.
Hundreds of Ontario workers are hospitalized
each year after being struck by a power saw or
the material they were cutting with it.
Common struck-by injuries from electric saws
include
• Cuts and lacerations
• Amputations
• Fractures • Ensure blades and tools are inspected prior to
• Eye injuries from flying debris. use.
• Ensure all guards are in place and that they
Identify controls have not been tampered with.
• Never put the saw down until the blade/chain
• Read all the safety materials and follow and motor has stopped.
the manufacturer’s instructions when using • Position yourself so that you are in control of
electric saws. the saw.
• Wear all required personal protective • Never wedge, wire, or jam the guard to
equipment when operating electric saws. That prevent it from working.
includes safety glasses, hearing protection, a
dust mask, and appropriate footwear. • Only competent workers should use an
electric saw.
• Turn the power off or disconnect electric
saws from the power source before making • Never wear loose clothing, neck chains,
adjustments or replacing blades. scarves, or anything else that can get caught
in the saw.
• The blade of the saw should extend only 1/8 in
(3 mm) below the piece of material that you
are cutting. The risk of a struck-by injury from Demonstrate
kickback increases as more of the blade is
exposed below the material. Demonstrate how to use an electric saw using the
specific model you are using on the jobsite. Give
• Never use your knees or foot to support the
workers an opportunity to handle the tool and
material you’re cutting.
provide feedback.
• Never pull the saw backward when you’re
Show workers where to find the manufacturer’s
cutting.
instructions or operating manuals for saws used
• Keep your hand away from the front of the on site.
saw.
Demonstrate how to properly hold lumber or
• Never reach under, around, or behind the material being cut and discuss awkward working
material you’re cutting while the saw blade is positions.
moving.
Encourage workers to report injuries and close
• Never carry a saw with your finger on the calls associated with using electric saws.
trigger.

Techniques and Tools 103

Radon gas
Explain dangers Identify controls
Radon is a radioactive gas that you can’t see, All enclosed buildings should be tested for radon.
smell, or taste. It is produced by the decay Do-it-yourself kits are reasonably priced and can
of uranium, which is found in soils and rocks. be purchased from the Radiation Safety Institute
This makes it a “naturally occurring radioactive of Canada or the Ontario Lung Association.
material” or NORM. Health Canada recommends long-term radon
Radon gas can move freely through the soil and testing over a period of at least three months.
escape into the air or seep into buildings—such as It’s best to test in the colder months because
a home, office, or school. windows and doors are generally kept closed
Once outdoors, it becomes diluted. Indoors, during that time.
however, it can build up to hazardous levels, If the radon level in a workplace is more than 200
especially in poorly ventilated areas or spaces Bq/m3, the employer should tell workers about
below ground. the presence of radon and warn them about the
It is found most often in the following places: health effects of exposure.

• Basements and crawl spaces The employer should consult an expert who
specializes in radon testing and remediation.
• Underground mines and tunnels Health Canada recognizes the Canadian
• Water treatment plants National Radon Proficiency Program (C-NRPP)
certification program.
• Petroleum production plants
If the radon level in the workplace is between 200
• Fertilizer manufacturing facilities
and 800 Bq/m3, the employer should carry out a
• Metal recycling facilities. “NORM Management” program. This involves:
Radon can enter a building through cracks in • Changing work practices
the foundation floors and walls. It can also enter
• Keeping the public out or limiting access by
through gaps around construction joints, support
workers to areas where radon levels are high
posts, window casements, service pipes, drains,
or sump pumps. • Taking steps to reduce the level of radon to
less than 200 Bq/m3.
If radon gas enters the lungs, it can damage the
cells that line the lungs. Long-term exposure to If the radon level in the workplace is more than
high levels of radon can cause lung cancer. 800 Bq/m3, the employer should carry out a
“Radiation Protection Management” program.
Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in
This involves:
non-smokers and the second-leading cause in
smokers.* • Putting administrative controls in place such
as the use of personal protective equipment
Health Canada estimates that radon exposure
causes 3,200 lung cancer deaths each year in • Establishing a dose monitoring program to
Canada. They recommend that radon in the air be track the annual amount of exposure that
less than 200 becquerels per cubic metre (Bq/ workers receive
m3). • Measuring workplace radon levels periodically
An estimated 6.9% of Canadians are living in • Taking steps to reduce radon levels to less
homes with radon levels above this number.† than 200 Bq/m3.

Demonstrate
* “Risk factors for lung cancer”, Canadian Cancer Society
website, accessed Sep 2017.
Explain to your crew the steps that the employer
† Health Canada, Cross-Canada Survey of Radon has taken or will take to protect them from
Concentrations in Homes: Final Report (2012) p. 9.
exposure to radon gas.

104 Occupational Health

Naturally occurring radioactive materials
Explain dangers These are some general precautions that should
be taken when dealing with NORMs:
Naturally occurring radioactive materials or • Train employees who may encounter
NORMs contain radioactive elements such as enhanced NORM levels.
uranium, thorium, potassium and their decay • Prohibit drinking, eating, and smoking in areas
products. where NORMs may exist.
In the earth’s crust, NORMs are present in very • Store NORMs and any contaminated materials
low levels. However, when NORMs are processed and waste in a designated area and limit
or refined through some industrial process, the access to this area.
result can be higher concentrations and increased
risk of exposure to humans and the environment. • Avoid activities that may create dust
containing NORMs such as cutting, grinding,
Workers should be aware of the presence of polishing, etc.
NORMs in the following types of workplaces:
• Minimize time spent in NORM-contaminated
• Phosphate fertilizer plants work areas.
• Forestry products and thermal electricity • Maximize the distance from the source of
facilities material when handling or storing NORMs.
• Mineral extraction and processing plants • Use appropriate shielding to minimize dose
• Metal recycling plants rates from the material (if appropriate).
• Waste management facilities • Dispose of NORM-contaminated materials
• Tunneling and underground workings efficiently to avoid stockpiling the material.
(in some areas where small amounts of More involved measures, such as those listed
radioactive minerals or gases may be present) below, should only be carried out by those
• Water treatment facilities (where sorptive trained in radiation safety.
media or ion-exchange resins are being used • Decontaminate areas of potential NORM
to remove minerals). contamination and NORM-contaminated
NORMs can enter the body when contaminated equipment.
dust is generated and inhaled or when • Use personnel protective equipment
contaminated materials are ingested. such as impermeable coveralls, boots,
The most significant health effects associated gloves, protective eyewear, and respiratory
with exposure to NORMs are lung cancer and protection.
leukemia. • Take steps to prevent environmental
NORM levels can vary depending on your contamination.
location. If the area readings are above typical • Check all workers for contamination before
background radiation levels, NORMs may be leaving the work area.
present. • Send NORM waste to a facility that is
authorized to accept contaminated materials
Identify controls (depending on the levels of radioactivity).

Radiation surveys should be conducted by those Demonstrate

who have been trained in radiation safety or by
external consultants to determine if the material Explain to your crew the steps that the employer
is a NORM or man-made radioactive material. has taken or will take to protect them from
NORMs should only be handled by those exposure to NORMs.
with appropriate radiation safety training and
precautions.

Occupational Health 105

Synthetic amorphous silica insulation
Explain dangers CUTTING APPLICATIONS
• Use hand tools to cut blankets whenever
Synthetic amorphous silica insulation (SASI) is a possible. Power tools create more dust.
thermal insulating material used in some building • If power tools are used, make sure they are
and manufacturing applications. equipped with a HEPA filter. Otherwise, use
SASI blankets are often used as an insulating a local exhaust ventilation system to capture
material to cover pipes. dust at the source.
The dust produced from handling or cutting this • Designated cutting areas or cutting shacks
material can cause the following health effects: should be used for high-volume cutting.
• Skin dryness • For prolonged periods of cutting, the work
• Irritation of the eyes, skin and respiratory area should be fully enclosed. The enclosure
tract. should have installed a mechanical ventilation
system equipped with a HEPA filter to keep
the work area under negative pressure.
Identify controls
CLEAN-UP AND DISPOSAL
HOW TO PREVENT EXPOSURE • Dispose of SASI waste in plastic bags upon
Use the following precautions when handling or removal.
cutting SASI blankets: • After exiting the insulation work area, put all
• Keep the SASI blanket sealed and unopened disposable PPE in sealed bags and place the
until it is ready for use. bags in designated containers.
• Use yellow tape to cordon off the work • Use a HEPA vacuum to clean any PPE or
area and post warning signs that personal clothing that may not be disposable.
protective equipment (PPE) must be worn in • Once the job is complete, use a HEPA vacuum
the work area. to clean the work area. Do not use dry
• Wear all PPE recommended by the sweeping methods or compressed air to clean
manufacturer. up under any circumstances.
• Wash your hands and face with soap and
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT water before breaks, before eating, and at the
Respiratory protection end of the work shift.

Full-facemask air-purifying respirator

equipped with a P100 filter. Demonstrate
Eye protection
With your crew, review the safety data sheet
Goggles or equivalent (SDS) for the SASI product used at your
Clothing workplace.
Impermeable disposable coveralls that are Emphasize the following information:
tight-fitting at the wrists, ankles, and face (i.e., • Health effects
it must have a hood).
• Precautionary measures
Hand protection
• First aid
Impermeable gloves with cuffs overlapped
• Disposal
and taped at the wrists.
• Control measures
If cutting, use cut-resistant gloves with
impermeable gloves underneath.

106 Occupational Health

Carbon monoxide
List sources of CO on site.

___________________________________

___________________________________

___________________________________

___________________________________

Explain dangers
Carbon monoxide (chemical abbreviation: CO) is
a clear, colourless gas you can’t smell or taste.
When engines must be operated indoors, take
It’s dangerous because it interferes with your these precautions.
body’s ability to use oxygen. Even in small doses,
CO can kill you. • Make sure the area is well ventilated. Keep
doors and windows open. Use fans to bring in
The first signs are headache and fatigue. fresh air if necessary.
More exposure can rapidly lead to loss of
consciousness, arrested breathing, heart failure, • Limit running time and don’t let engines idle.
and death. • Monitor CO levels regularly to make sure that
A major source of CO is engine exhaust. Gasoline, ventilation is adequate.
propane, and diesel engines all release CO. Some • When necessary, use exhaust hoses or fans to
types of welding may also produce it. draw engine exhaust out of the work area.
• Keep engines well tuned. They will run cleaner
Identify controls and produce less CO.
• When possible, use equipment that is
Since CO has no taste or smell, you need a gas electrically powered rather than gasoline,
detector to see if it’s present. diesel, or propane powered.
Some detectors are tubes that change colour • When other controls are inadequate, workers
when CO is in the air. These can be used only must wear respiratory protection. This means
once. Others are continuous monitors with a cell a supplied-air respirator (i.e., attached to an
designed to sense CO. independent supply of clean air.)
Whenever possible, operate engines outdoors.
Welding machines and generators, for example, Demonstrate
can be left outside—only the leads have to run
into the building.
Point out sources of CO on site.
Never work alone in an area where CO can
Demonstrate how to use a CO detector.
accumulate.
Show your crew how to ventilate indoor areas.

Occupational Health 107

Hand-arm vibration
Explain dangers • Improve the ergonomic design of work
stations. Awkward postures can increase the
Hand-arm vibration (HAV) is vibration transmitted load on employees’ hands, wrists, and arms.
into workers’ hands and arms from work • Use devices such as jigs and suspension
processes such as operating hand-held power systems to reduce the need to grip and
tools. Frequent exposure to moderate- and support heavy tools.
high-intensity HAV can cause hand-arm vibration • Do not use blunt or damaged tools and
syndrome (HAVS). replace worn out items such as grinding
HAVS is a general term that refers to the damage wheels.
to nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and joints in the • Limit the time that workers are exposed to
hands and arms due to HAV. vibration. For example, put workers in teams
HAVS initially affects the nerves. Symptoms where they switch tasks throughout the
include numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness. day. That way, one worker is not operating a
This can be followed by “Raynaud’s syndrome” vibrating tool for the entire day.
or “vibration white finger”. Blood vessels become • Use gloves to keep hands warm and also
narrow and the reduced blood flow causes the provide some protection from vibration.
fingers to become pale, waxy-white, or purplish.
HAVS can also cause muscle pain and fatigue, Demonstrate
joint stiffness, and loss of manual dexterity.
The current HAV limit set by the European With your crew, review the vibration levels of
Standard (Directive 2002/44/EC) is a daily the tools you use on site (see table below). The
exposure action value (EAV) of 2.5 m/s2 and a greater the exposure level, the greater the risk for
daily exposure limit value (ELV) of 5 m/s2. HAVS and the more action the employer will need
to take to reduce the risk.
The EAV is a daily amount of vibration exposure.
If workers are exposed to more than the EAV,
employers are required to take action to reduce Vibration Levels for Tools and Equipment
HAV exposure.
The ELV is the maximum amount of vibration an Low risk Medium risk High risk
employee may be exposed to on any single day. (< 2.5 m/s )2
(2.5 to 5 m/s ) 2
(> 5 m/s2)
This should never be exceeded. A worker who Abrasive band Air drill Air chisel
is exposed to vibration levels above the ELV is Band saw Angle grinder Circular saw
considered to be at high risk of developing HAVS.
Cordless Blower Chainsaw
screwdriver Core drill Hammer drill
Identify controls Jet washer Crosscut saw Impact drill
Spray gun Chop saw Impact wrench
First, prepare an action plan to deal with the Threading Electric Jackhammer
high-risk work tasks. Then, address the medium- machine screwdriver Pneumatic
and low-risk activities. Vacuum cleaner Floor sander hammer
• Look for alternative work methods that Hand-held Reciprocating
eliminate or reduce exposure to vibration. For sander saw
example, use an excavating machine rather
than a breaker tool to break concrete. Note: The vibration levels are indicative only and will
• Make sure that the equipment selected for the vary depending on equipment type, conditions of
use, the age of the tool, how well the tool has been
task is the lowest vibrating tool that is suitable
maintained, the task being carried out with the tool,
for the task and can do the work efficiently. and if the tool has been fitted with various accessories.

108 Occupational Health

Vibration white finger
Explain dangers Identify controls
Vibration white finger, also known as “Raynaud’s • Where possible, do the job without using
syndrome”, is a disease that makes your fingers vibrating tools or equipment.
turn become pale, waxy-white, or purplish.. It • Use tools with built-in anti-vibration features.
occurs when your hands are exposed to too much
vibration from tools and equipment. • Wear anti-vibration gloves (as classified under
ISO Standard 10819).
Vibration white finger damages blood vessels,
nerves, and muscles. • Don’t use vibrating tools and equipment for
long periods, especially in the cold. Short
There are several symptoms: bursts are better.
• Numbness and tingling in fingers • Follow an appropriate work/rest schedule.
• Whitening—first your fingertips, then your Rotate between different jobs or take more
whole finger breaks.
• Spasms in fingers • During work breaks, move and massage your
• Attacks lasting up to half an hour—often with fingers.
whiteness changing to deep red and fingers • Don’t hold vibrating tools tightly. Rest them
becoming very painful on the work surface or workpiece if possible.
• Permanent loss of feeling in your fingertips Using tools with good ergonomic design will
also help.
• Reduced grip strength
• Keep your whole body warm—your hands and
• Attacks that become more frequent and chest especially.
painful.
• Don’t smoke. Nicotine narrows your blood
Tool and equipment operators are at the most vessels, which limits your circulation.
risk. Their hands are often exposed to high levels
of vibration. • Keep equipment in good condition. Poorly
maintained equipment can produce excess
High-vibration equipment includes road drills, vibration.
chipping hammers, compactors, and chainsaws.
• Report poorly functioning tools to your
Risk depends on the following factors: supervisor immediately. Newer tools tend to
• How long the vibrating tool or equipment is have more anti-vibration properties.
used • Exercise regularly. It can help you maintain a
• Whether operation is off-and-on or healthy blood circulation and reduce stress.
continuous • Don’t ignore signs and symptoms. See your
• Workplace temperatures (cold is a major doctor right away if you experience tingling,
trigger) numbness, etc.
• Whether or not you smoke (smoking reduces
blood flow to your fingers) Demonstrate
• The magnitude (acceleration) of vibration.
Ask the crew to describe any problems they have
For example, tools such as impact wrenches, had with vibrating tools and equipment. Have
chainsaws, and jackhammers can be high-risk if they experienced any symptoms of VWF?
workers use them more than 60 minutes in total
per day.

Occupational Health 109

Solvents
Explain dangers Identify controls
Solvents are often used with paints, lacquers, • Some solvents are very flammable. Eliminate
varnishes, adhesives, thinners, degreasers, any sources of ignition in the work area.
cleaners, glues, and mastics. • When applying solvent-based materials, make
You can be exposed—and overexposed—to sure there’s enough ventilation. Open doors
solvents in various ways. and windows. When that isn’t enough, use
1. Absorption—the solvent penetrates your skin. fans.
This could be through direct contact with • When the safety data sheet (SDS) requires a
your skin while you clean tools. respirator, make sure that yours is approved
2. Inhalation—you can breathe in solvent for protection against “organic vapours.” The
vapours when you’re applying sealants, glue, cartridge will be pink and marked “OV”.
and paint, or cleaning your tools. • Avoid skin and eye contact with solvents.
3. Ingestion—this means swallowing. You can • Follow the instructions on the product label
ingest solvents from your hands while you eat, and SDS regarding protection, storage,
drink, or smoke. handling, etc.
4. Injection—this can happen when your skin is • If you don’t understand the instructions, ask
punctured by a high-pressure spray gun. for help. Make sure you know what to do in
Different solvents can affect your health in case of an emergency.
different ways. You can pass out and even die • Don’t eat, drink, or smoke where solvents are
from exposure to very high concentrations of being used.
solvent vapour. • After working with solvents, wash your
Short-term health effects from solvent exposure hands thoroughly before eating, drinking, or
include smoking.
• Irritation of eyes, lungs, and skin • Don’t use solvents to clean your skin or hair.
• Headache • Don’t weld on materials that have been
• Nausea cleaned with chlorinated solvents. This can
produce some very toxic gases.
• Dizziness.
• Keep lids on solvents when you’re not using
Solvent exposure has three long-term health them. This keeps vapours from getting into
effects: the air.
1. Dermatitis—inflammation of the skin. Look for
redness, itching, swelling, and blisters. Demonstrate
2. Nervous system disorders—you may
experience fatigue, muscle shakes, memory With your crew, review the information on the
loss, or reduced mental performance. supplier or workplace label and on the SDS for a
3. Damage to liver and kidneys—chlorinated solvent used on your site.
solvents can cause this. Identify any solvent on site that does not have
a supplier or workplace label and ensure that a
workplace label is made for it.

110 Occupational Health

Silica
Explain dangers • Required personal protective equipment also
includes eye protection and clothing that
Silica dust and particles are a hazard on many covers the body. Gloves or barrier cream is
jobsites. recommended for workers with sensitive skin.

Silica dust and particles are generated from • Use WATER whenever possible to control
dust. Wet cutting and other wet methods can
• Cutting and drilling concrete keep dust levels very low.
• Sandblasting concrete • If water isn’t practical, attach a dust collector
• Cutting and drilling masonry to the tool or equipment.
• Grinding concrete and masonry • Use a HEPA vacuum to clean the work area
and your work clothes. Do not allow silica
• Sanding drywall.
dust to accumulate. Never use dry sweeping
If we breathe silica dust and particles into our methods or compressed air to remove dust.
lungs often enough and long enough, we can get
• Turn off heating and air-conditioning units to
a disease caused silicosis.
reduce the spread of silica dust to other parts
Silicosis is a disabling, progressive, non-reversible, of the workplace.
and often deadly lung disease. You may show
• Warn other trades about the risk of silica
no symptoms in the early stages and severe
exposure and limit entry into the work area.
breathing problems in the later stages.
Post warning signs if necessary.
Many workers with silicosis can develop other
• Ventilate the area when cutting, drilling, and
health problems such as tuberculosis and lung
sanding.
cancer. They can also develop complications such
as heart disease. • Always wash your face and hands before
eating, drinking, smoking, and going home.
Identify controls
Demonstrate
There are three basic ways to control silica dust
on a site: With your crew, review the safety data sheet
(SDS) for silica. Pay special attention to handling
1. Prevent silica dust from getting in the air and storage procedures and PPE requirements.
2. Remove silica dust from the air Safety data sheets must be kept on site for
3. Prevent workers from inhaling silica dust. hazardous products. Show your crew where
When you’re doing a job that generates silica they’re located.
particles—or working close by—you need Show them where to find a respirator when they
protection. need one. Demonstrate how to put it on.
• Wear a particulate respirator if no other
control methods are available. Minimum
protection is a half-facepiece air-purifying
respirator with an N95 filter. As silica dust
increases, you’ll need more protection.
• An N95 filtering facepiece respirator (i.e., dust
mask) may be appropriate when doing short-
duration tasks, when local exhaust ventilation
is available on tools, or when working outside.

Half-facepiece Air-purifying Respirator

Occupational Health 111

Silica—Cutting and grinding concrete
Explain dangers • Use a respirator. An N95 filtering facepiece
respirator (i.e., dust mask) may be appropriate
You wouldn’t breathe in carbon monoxide. So, when doing short-duration tasks, when local
why would you breathe in the cloud of dust that’s exhaust ventilation is available on tools, or
created when you cut or grind concrete, brick, or when working outside. Otherwise, a more
stone? That cloud contains very tiny particles of protective respirator is required. Minimum
silica. protection is a half-facepiece air-purifying
respirator with an N95 filter.
Your lungs have a tough time removing these
particles. Over time, scars develop on your • Before starting work, make sure you have
lungs. At first you may have no symptoms, but all required PPE in place such as safety
eventually you may develop shortness of breath, goggles, safety boots, a hard hat, and hearing
a severe cough, wheezing, and tightness of the protection. Gloves are also recommended.
chest. This can often be fatal. • If your saw or grinder is equipped with local
Cutting and grinding silica without protection can exhaust ventilation (vacuum attachment) or
lead to disastrous outcomes. a water attachment, inspect the device to
ensure it is operating properly.
• You can develop silicosis after only a few
weeks or months of exposure. • In outdoor environments, set up your work
area so that the wind blows from behind you
• The disease can become worse even after and carries the dust cloud away from your
you’ve stopped working with silica. breathing area.
• More and more studies are finding that silica DURING CUTTING OR GRINDING
exposure also causes lung cancer.
• If safe to do so, continuously and thoroughly
Most concrete and masonry products contain wet the area that you will be cutting or
high amounts of silica. When you cut or grind grinding.
these products, you are being exposed to silica if
measures are not taken. • If excessive dust is generated, stop the work.
Determine if the tools or equipment require
Although most diseases associated with silica adjustment or replacement.
exposure are not curable, they are preventable.
AFTER CUTTING OR GRINDING
• Remove dust from your tools with a damp
Identify controls cloth or HEPA vacuum.
Here are some measures you can take to reduce • Clean the work area to prevent the buildup of
the amount of silica in the air when cutting or silica. Wet sweep or use a HEPA vacuum but
grinding. NEVER use compressed air to blow the dust.
PLAN BEFORE CUTTING OR GRINDING • Wash your hands with soap and water after
you finish.
• Notify workers that you will be generating
silica dust. Tell them to keep at least 10 m • Shower and change out of your work clothes
(3 ft) away. Post warning signs. before going home to prevent exposure to
family and friends.
• Do the work in an area away from other
workers or do it when no workers are around.
• If you can’t prevent the spread of dust to
Demonstrate
nearby workers who are not protected, set up
an enclosure around the cutting or grinding With your crew, identify parts of the dust
operation. collector, show the function of each, and
demonstrate how to attach and clean it.
Show how to put on a respirator and demonstrate
how to perform a seal check.

112 Occupational Health

Silica—Installing and finishing drywall
Explain dangers Identify controls
Some drywall tasks can release dust with high • Workers need to know the health effects of
concentrations of silica particles into the air. silica exposure and the controls for preventing
These tasks include exposure during drywall cutting and sanding
• Cutting drywall (e.g., making holes for light tasks. They must be trained on WHMIS and
fixtures, plugs, switches, etc.) know where to find safety data sheets (SDSs)
for hazardous products.
• Sanding drywall joint compound
• Turn off heating and air-conditioning units to
• Cutting cement board reduce the spread of dust to other parts of
• Disturbing settled dust the workplace.
When inhaled, silica particles travel deep into the • Warn other trades about the risk of silica
lungs. Over time, these particles can cause the exposure, and limit entry into the work area.
following health issues: • Ventilate the area when cutting and sanding.
• Respiratory problems • Open windows and doors and use mechanical
• Silicosis fans to dilute contaminated air.
• Lung cancer • Always wash your face and hands before
eating, drinking, smoking, and going home.
• Scleroderma
• Use an electric shrouded ventilated rotary
Respiratory problems—Inhaling silica particles
sander (SVRS). It can reduce silica dust levels
can cause the following:
by about 96%. This type of sander draws air
• Irritation to the throat and airway through the rotating pad into a shroud and
• Persistent coughing passes it through a vacuum collection system
with a HEPA filter.
• Breathing difficulties
• Vacuum the workspace with a HEPA vacuum
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder attached to either a manual sander or an
(COPD)—a combination of chronic bronchitis electric SVRS. Because silica particles are
and emphysema that is often fatal. extremely small, a conventional vacuum will
Silicosis—This is caused by an inflammation blow the dust back into the air.
and buildup of scars on the lungs, which makes • Use respiratory protection whenever you are
breathing extremely difficult. Once silicosis starts working with materials containing silica. Silica
to develop, it continues to get worse even if particles are so small that you may not even
exposure to silica stops. see the hazardous dust in the air.
The disease is often fatal. Many people who have • For most drywall sanding and cutting
silicosis develop other health problems, such as applications, use an elastomeric half-mask air-
heart disease, tuberculosis, and lung cancer. purifying respirator with a P100 filter.
Lung cancer—Many scientific organizations have
confirmed that exposure to silica causes lung
cancer, a debilitating disease that is often fatal.
Demonstrate
Scleroderma—This is a disorder of the connective Show your crew an elastomeric half-mask air-
tissue that holds various body parts together. The purifying respirator. Arrange for them to have a fit
skin becomes tight and thick, making it difficult test and show them how to select, use, and care
for a person to move. for the respirator.
The disorder can cause serious problems, such as Ask the crew if they have had WHMIS training. If
damage to the kidneys, lungs, digestive system, not, arrange for training. Show them where the
and heart. SDSs for hazardous products are kept on site.

Occupational Health 113

Dust
List tasks that can generate excessive dust. Identify controls

___________________________________
• Prevent dusts from getting into the air by
– spraying water on the workpiece before
cutting, pouring material, etc.
___________________________________
– spraying water on the ground before
sweeping. If wet-sweeping is not possible,
___________________________________
use a vacuum.
– using a dust collector for tools or
___________________________________
equipment if available.
• Consider different ways of doing the job that
could reduce the amount of dust created. For
instance, you could
– use low-speed rather than high-speed
grinders
Explain dangers – order blocks in various sizes to minimize
the need for cutting
Dust is found in many places on a jobsite and can
– use pre-mixed cement or mortar
be hazardous to your health.
– shorten the distance that material is
This hazard varies depending on the type of
dropped or tossed when pouring or
dust, the amount of dust inhaled, the size of
shoveling dusty materials
particulate, and how well your lungs are able to
remove the dust. – stand opposite to the direction of the dust
cloud.
Inhaling dust over many years can cause
• Prevent dust accumulation by cleaning the
• Fibrosis (hardening of the lungs, making it work area frequently throughout the shift
difficult to breathe)
using a wet-sweeping method or a HEPA
• Cancer of the lungs, abdomen, and nose. vacuum.
Even inhaling dusts over a couple of days or • Wash your hands before eating, drinking, or
months can cause smoking and at the end of your shift.
• Effects on the nervous system • Ventilate the area when performing tasks that
• Allergic reactions such as hay fever or more create dust. Also keep others away from the
serious reactions such as asthma. area when these tasks are being done.

Examples of jobs that create dust include • Use personal protective equipment when it is
not possible to prevent dust from getting into
• Cutting concrete, wood, or other materials the air. Consult the safety data sheet (SDS)
• Scoring/cutting tile for the product that is crewating the dust.
• Mixing mortar
• Pouring dry cement Demonstrate
• Grinding
Demonstrate how to use dust collecting
• Knocking or bumping into dusty materials equipment on tools or machinery.
• Loading, unloading, or transporting dusty Review company rules and procedures on
materials. respirators.
Review the information in the SDS with your crew.

114 Occupational Health

HEPA filters
Explain dangers • Use disposable PPE and clothing if possible or
clean and decontaminate them after use. Use
“HEPA” stands for “high-efficiency particulate a HEPA vacuum to remove harmful particles
aerosol”. HEPA filters can trap the microscopic from clothing before going home.
toxic particles that pass right through ordinary • HEPA filters cannot be cleaned. They must
filters. be replaced with new filters approved by the
HEPA filters can protect workers from manufacturer.
microscopic particles that can pose a health risk • Dispose of old filters as contaminated waste.
such as an occupational disease or an allergic • Don’t punch holes in HEPA filters or pre-filters
reaction. This includes when they get clogged.
• Dust • Don’t use compressed air to clean old filters
• Pollen or bang old filters to remove accumulated
• Mould dust. That just releases the dust back into the
air.
• Bacteria
• Choose power tools and equipment that
• Smoke allow a HEPA vacuum or dust collector to be
• Asbestos. attached directly to them. This will allow you
to clean up while you’re working.
There are two main applications for HEPA filters:
• Clean up as often as possible to prevent
1. Industrial HEPA vacuum cleaners harmful contaminants from building up and
2. Negative air filtration units. prevent workers from being exposed.
HEPA filters can pose problems when they
Filters must be certified by the Institute of
• are not replaced as required Environment Sciences to qualify as HEPA filters.
• are not properly certified.
Filters that pass the certification test are given
a number. Test results are recorded on the label.
Identify controls
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s Demonstrate
instruction manual.
• If a vacuum or negative air unit requires a Inspect a HEPA filter in front of your crew.
HEPA filter, make sure one is installed. To ensure that the HEPA filter is authentic, look
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how for the label from the Institute of Environment
and how often to change the filter. Sciences.
• Used filters will be contaminated with toxic Make sure that the filter is not installed
substances. When inspecting or replacing backwards, is properly seated in its housing, and
filters, do so in a safe, well-controlled is tightly secured.
place and wear proper personal protective Inspect the filter housing for signs of dust that
equipment (PPE) and clothing. indicate the filter is being bypassed. A HEPA filter
• PPE may include the following: is useless if the housing leaks.
– N100 NIOSH-approved air-purifying Inspect the filter carefully for buildup and
respirator damage. If it appears to be clogged or damaged
in any way, replace it with a new filter. If you see
– Dust-resistant safety goggles dust particles in the exhaust air flow, it means the
– Disposable coveralls HEPA filter has ruptured or failed and must be
– Impervious gloves. replaced.

Occupational Health 115

Cement
List cement hazards on site. Identify controls
WHAT TO WEAR
___________________________________
• Wear a N, R, or P95 mask when pouring or
mixing dry cement.
___________________________________
• Wear eye protection for mixing, pouring, and
other work with dry cement.
___________________________________
• Wear alkali-resistant gloves.
• Wear coveralls with long sleeves and full-
length pants.
Explain dangers • Pull sleeves over gloves.
Portland cement is used in Ontario every day. It
• When working with wet mortar or concrete,
tuck pants inside boots and duct-tape the
can hurt you if:
top.
• It contacts your skin
WHAT TO DO
• It contacts your eyes
• Work upwind from cement dust.
• It is inhaled.
• Remove rings and watches. Cement dust can
Cement usually contains a metal called collect underneath and burn your skin.
hexavalent chromium. This metal causes allergic
dermatitits (inflammation of the skin).
• Remove any clothing contaminated by
cement.
DRY CEMENT
• Don’t wash your hands with water from
When you empty a bag of cement, the dust can buckets used for cleaning tools.
irritate your skin. The dust reacts with sweat or
damp clothing to form a corrosive solution.
• If your skin comes in contact with cement,
wash with cold running water as soon as
Cement dust can also get in your eyes, causing possible. Flush out any open sores or cuts.
redness, burns, or blindness. Get medical attention if your skin still feels like
Inhaling cement dust irritates your nose and it’s burning.
throat. It can also cause choking and trouble • After working with cement, always wash your
breathing. hands before eating, smoking, drinking, or
WET CEMENT using the toilet.
Cement is also hazardous when it’s wet—in • Read the safety data sheet (SDS) for
mortar or concrete. If it gets inside your boots procedures to follow after eye or skin contact
or gloves, or soaks through your clothes, it can with cement.
cause burns and skin ulcers. • If your eyes are exposed to cement, rinse with
The burns caused by cement may be slow. You cold tap water for at least 15 minutes. Get
may not feel anything until several hours later. medical attention if necessary.
That’s why it’s important to wash cement off your
skin right away. Demonstrate
SILICA
Whether cement is wet or dry, you need to worry With your crew, review the safety information on
about silica. Repeated exposure to airborne silica the SDS for Portland Cement or the WHMIS label
can lead to silicosis, a disabling and often fatal on the cement bag.
lung disease. There may also be a link between See related safety talks on Skin hazards—Allergic
silica dust and cancer. contact dermatitis (ACD) and Silica.

116 Occupational Health

Concrete
Explain dangers WORKING WITH CONCRETE
• Wear coveralls with long sleeves and full-
Cement dust can irritate your skin. The dust length pants. Tuck pants inside boots and
reacts with sweat or damp clothing to form a duct-tape the top to keep wet mortar and
corrosive solution. Cement dust is also dangerous concrete out.
if it gets into your eyes, or if you inhale it. • Use waterproof boots high enough to keep
Wet concrete or mortar can burn your skin or concrete from flowing over the top.
cause skin ulcers if it falls inside your boots or • Wear acid-resistant rubber gloves (e.g., nitrile
gloves or soaks through your clothes. Concrete or butyl). Pull sleeves over gloves or tuck
finishers who kneel on fresh concrete have had them inside gloves.
their knees severely burned.
• Remove rings and watches because wet
The burns caused by concrete may be slow. You concrete can collect underneath and burn
may not feel anything until several hours later. your skin.
That’s why it’s important to wash concrete off
your skin right away. • After working with concrete, always wash
your hands before eating, smoking, drinking,
Concrete usually contains a metal called or using the toilet.
hexavalent chromium. This metal causes allergic
contact dermatitits (inflammation of the skin). • Never wash your hands with water from
buckets used for cleaning tools.
Beware of silica, an ingredient in concrete. You
can inhale silica from cement dust, or from • Remove any clothing contaminated by
sanding, grinding, or cutting concrete. wet concrete as soon as possible. Wear
waterproof kneepads or use a kneeboard
Repeated exposure to airborne silica can lead to when kneeling.
silicosis, a disabling and often fatal lung disease.
There may also be a link between silica dust and • If your skin comes in contact with concrete,
cancer. wash with cold running water as soon as
possible. Flush out any open sores or cuts.
Get medical attention if your skin still feels like
Identify controls it’s burning.
• If your eyes are exposed to concrete, rinse
SILICA
with cold tap water for at least 15 minutes. Get
• Make sure you have dust control measures in medical attention if necessary.
place.
• Where possible, wet-cut rather than dry-cut Demonstrate
blocks and other concrete products.
• Wear an N, R, or P95 mask. Ask your crew about the precautions they take
• Wear eye protection. when working with concrete.
Make sure they have been provided with a
MIXING CONCRETE dust mask, safety glasses, rubber gloves, and
• Wear an N, R, or P95 mask when pouring or waterproof boots.
mixing dry cement. Show your crew where to find the safety data
• Wear eye protection when mixing, pouring, sheet (SDS) for the type of concrete you’re
and doing other work with dry cement. using on site. Review the handling and storage
procedures, PPE requirements, and first aid
• Work upwind from cement dust. measures.
See related safety talks on Skin hazards—Allergic
contact dermatitis (ACD) and Silica.

Occupational Health 117

Moulds
List mould hazards on site. You may be exposed to moulds when you work in
damp locations or water-damaged buildings.
Visible mould may be just the tip of the iceberg.
___________________________________
More mould may be growing out of sight behind
walls, under floors and carpets, and above
___________________________________ ceilings in a ventilation system.

___________________________________ Identify controls

If you find mouldy areas on a job, tell your
supervisor. The company may arrange to have
Explain dangers tests done. Samples have to be taken and
analyzed to see whether the mould is dangerous.
Moulds can be a health hazard in buildings that Toxic moulds must be removed. There’s no way
are already built or under construction. to work around them. Removal calls for special
Some moulds are toxic. Touching them—or procedures, including protective equipment such
breathing in their spores—can be harmful. as respirators, coveralls, and gloves.

Symptoms include If mould removal is required, it’s the company’s

responsibility to train and equip you for the job.
• Irritated skin, eyes, nose, and throat
Follow these safe work procedures:
• Runny nose and watery eyes
• Clean up wet areas immediately and fix any
• Trouble breathing leaks. Use ventilation to prevent moisture
• Fatigue and headaches. buildup.
People allergic to moulds may get nosebleeds • Use mould-resistant products in damp areas
and a severe cough. when possible.
If your immune system is weak, you shouldn’t • For small-scale mould removal, wear a
work in mould-contaminated areas. disposable respirator such as an N95 filtering
facepiece dust mask. For larger projects
Not everyone exposed to toxic moulds will
or when using a hazardous product as a
develop symptoms.
disinfectant, a supplied-air respirator may be
APPEARANCE required (refer to the SDS for the product).
Moulds are colourful and woolly. They can be • During mould cleanup, wear disposable gloves
almost any colour—red, blue, brown, green, white, and safety glasses.
or black. They reproduce by releasing spores into
• Wash your hands before eating, smoking, or
the air. More mould may grow where the spores
drinking.
land.
• Restrict access to mould-contaminated areas.
LOCATION
• Vacuuming may increase the spread of mould
Mould thrives on cellulose material that is wet or
spores into the air. Use a central vacuum with
water-soaked. This includes drywall, ceiling tiles,
outside exhaust or one equipped with a HEPA
wallpaper, particleboard, insulation, and plywood.
filter. Only use power tools equipped with a
Moulds love dark, moist places and can grow at HEPA filter.
room temperature. Mould can appear on damp
materials in as little as 48 hours.
Demonstrate
Mould has been found in portable classrooms
with moisture problems. This is usually a black Demonstrate clean-up measures for dealing with
mould that looks slimy. mould.

118 Occupational Health

Sewage
List sewage hazards on site. • Store clean equipment and clothing
separately from dirty equipment and clothing.
Don’t mix them up.
___________________________________
• Use the designated clean area for eating
and smoking. Change out of contaminated
___________________________________ clothing and wash up before eating or
smoking.
___________________________________ • Always wash your hands well before touching
your face, eating, drinking, or smoking. Keep
your fingernails short.
• Where contamination is heavy, you must
– shower and change out of work clothes
before leaving the job
Explain dangers
– never take contaminated clothing home
Sewage contains micro-organisms such as for washing.
bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These can • Wear disposable clothing and throw it away
be particularly active in summer. at the end of the day. Or wash contaminated
Exposure to equipment or material contaminated clothing with a bleach solution.
by sewage can cause • Don’t forget to clean your work tools and the
• Gastroenteritis (stomach cramps, abdominal bottom of work boots after exposure.
pain, diarrhea, vomiting) • Get shots or boosters for polio, tetanus,
• Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver, jaundice) diphtheria, typhoid fever, and hepatitis.

• Occupational asthma (breathlessness, tight • If sewage gets in your eyes, flush them
chest, wheezing) immediately with clean water.

• Infection of eyes and skin. • Keep open cuts, sores, and scrapes well
covered with dry, clean bandages.
Sewage commonly infects workers by
• Restrict access to areas where sewage may
• Hand-to-mouth contact during eating, be present and put up signs to warn workers
drinking, and smoking or by wiping the face about the hazard.
with contaminated hands
• Seek medical attention if you experience any
• Skin contact through cuts, scratches, or symptoms of exposure to micro-organisms.
penetrating wounds That includes fever, nausea, diarrhea,
• Inhaling dust contaminated by living or dead vomiting, stomach cramps, and skin rash.
micro-organisms.
Demonstrate
Identify controls
With your crew, inspect clean and contaminated
• Wear the personal protective equipment areas on site.
(PPE) and clothing provided by your Identify precautions being taken in dirty areas.
employer, such as waterproof gloves and
coveralls, rubber boots, safety goggles, face Check that all workers have the required PPE and
shield, and N95 respirator. know how to use it.

• Wash with clean water, soap, and paper If they have to work in any confined spaces, ask if
towels. Shower for heavy contamination. they have received the required training.

Occupational Health 119

West Nile virus
List WNV hazards on site. Mosquitos can also hatch in equipment such as
tarps, buckets, barrels, and wheelbarrows holding
water. Even water-filled ruts in the ground can
___________________________________ help breed mosquitos.

___________________________________ Identify controls

___________________________________ • Empty equipment regularly.
• Discard tires, buckets, cans, and containers.
• Drill drain holes in containers that can’t be
thrown out.
Explain dangers
• Clean out eavestroughs, storm gutters, and
Those who work outdoors in summer and early roof gutters.
autumn can be exposed to West Nile virus. The • Check flat roofs for standing water.
virus is transmitted by mosquitos. • Fill in ruts and other depressions where water
The chances of getting bitten by an infected can collect.
mosquito are very low. Even if infected, most CLOTHING
people don’t show any sign of illness. About 20%
of those infected develop West Nile fever. • Cover up, especially at dawn and dusk when
mosquitos are most active.
The fever causes mild, flu-like symptoms:
• Wear long-sleeved shirts.
• Fever
• Wear long pants tucked into your socks.
• Headache
• Apply insect repellent containing DEET to
• Nausea your exposed skin—never under your clothing.
• Body aches. DEET
One in 150 infected people get a severe form • DEET is the most effective insect repellent
of the disease. This is known as West Nile available. The more DEET a repellent contains,
encephalitis or meningitis. It can affect your brain the longer it will be effective.
and the damage can be permanent or fatal.
• A product with 6.65% DEET provides about
Serious symptoms include 2 hours of protection. A product with 23.8%
• Severe Headache DEET provides about 5 hours of protection.
• High fever • Don’t use products with more than 30% DEET.
• Neck stiffness • Stay on the safe side—use the lowest
• Disorientation percentage of DEET you can get away with
while still being protected.
• Shakes or convulsions
• Muscle weakness Demonstrate
• Numbness or paralysis.
With the crew, inspect the project for places
BREEDING GROUNDS where mosquitos can breed and dispose of any
Mosquitos can reproduce where water stands for standing water.
more than four days. On worksites, that means Distribute insect repellent to your workers.
excavations, basements, and other low-lying
areas.

120 Occupational Health

Needlestick and sharp-object injuries
Explain dangers
Occasionally workers may encounter needles,
syringes, or razors on the job. Certain workplaces
may be at a higher risk of encountering these
types of hazards. They include
• Housing or shelter projects
• Public washrooms
• The bottom of elevator shafts
• Marijuana grow-operations
• Illegal drug labs.
The main risk to workers who have a needlestick
injury is exposure to viruses such as Hepatitis B
and C, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). • Put the needle or object in a strong container
Hepatitis B is an illness that affects the liver. It (glass, metal, or durable plastic jar) for
causes liver inflammation, vomiting, and jaundice. disposal. Do not use a pop bottle.
Over the long term, it can cause scarring of the • Open the lid of the container first and then
liver and liver cancer. It can eventually lead to bring it close to the needle or object. This will
death. minimize the distance you have to carry the
Hepatitis C also affects the liver and can cause material. Then close the lid securely.
fever, loss of appetite, fatigue, and jaundice. Over • Hold the needle tip away from you at all times.
longer periods of time, it causes scar tissue and
liver failure. Some people may have no symptoms • Do not dispose of needles in the garbage.
for many years but can still infect others. Many municipalities in Ontario have needle
disposal sites. If possible, used needles should
HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system, be dropped off at these designated locations.
causing infection. When the body can’t fight
infections anymore, the disease becomes What to do if you accidentally prick yourself?
acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). 1. Let the wound bleed.
2. Flush the area with water or wash with soap
Identify controls and water. If the skin has been broken, apply
a topical antiseptic solution (e.g., iodine,
• Use adequate lighting when working in dark isopropyl alcohol).
areas to avoid any accidental contact with
used needles or other sharp objects.
3. Do not apply disinfectants to the eyes, nose,
or mouth.
• Accidental contact with used needles can be
avoided by following some simple procedures.
4. Bandage the wound.
• If you find a needle or syringe, always assume 5. Seek immediate medical attention at the
hospital emergency department.
it is contaminated.
• Before picking up the needle, notify your
supervisor for direction. If your supervisor Demonstrate
is not nearby, have another worker get the
supervisor. Never leave the needle alone. Point out the location of the nearest needle
disposal site to your crew.
• Use pliers, tongs, or tweezers to pick up
needles, syringes, or glass stems. Never use If your company has other disposal procedures,
your hands. explain them to workers.

Occupational Health 121

Sun protection
Explain dangers • Protect your eyes. Wear UV-absorbent safety
glasses (e.g., CSA-approved polycarbonate
At some point, we’ve all been burned by the sun. glasses) or safety sunglasses. Even clear
safety glasses will decrease your UV exposure.
Sunburn is the effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation
on the skin. UV light beams down on us every • Find a shaded area for your breaks and lunch.
day. But now there’s less protective ozone in • Avoid contact with substances known to
the atmosphere and the risk of exposure has cause photosensitization such as coal tar.
increased. • SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Multiply
UV rays are more powerful than visible light rays. the SPF by 10 to know how many minutes you
They’re so powerful that they can cause cancer. can stay in the sun without burning.
Sunlight is the main source of UV radiation • Examine your skin regularly for any unusual
known to damage the skin and cause skin cancer. changes such as a spot on the skin that is
Exposure to the sun’s UV radiation is a highly changing size, shape, or colour.
preventable cause of skin cancer. • Sunlight doesn’t have to be direct to do
The more time you spend in the sun without damage. Light reflected off surfaces such as
UV protection, the higher your risk becomes of sand, water, concrete, and snow also cause UV
developing skin cancer. exposure.
Melanoma is the least common but most • Sunscreen should be standard equipment for
dangerous type of skin cancer. The incidence of anyone working outdoors during spring and
melanoma in men is rising faster than all other summer months. Keep a bottle handy in your
cancers. toolbox.
The mortality rate from malignant melanoma is
also increasing, particularly in middle-aged males. Did you know?
In addition to cancer, UV radiation can cause Weather reports now include a UV index.
cataracts, other eye damage, and premature This gives you an idea of how intense the
aging of the skin. ultraviolet radiation will be under clear
When you work in the sun, especially in the spring sunshine or light cloud.
and summer, you need to minimize the hazards of When the index is high (7 or higher) you can
UV exposure. get sunburned in only 15 to 20 minutes. The
highest exposure is from noon to 2 pm.
Identify controls
• Wear a shirt and long pants to cover most of Demonstrate
your skin. Tightly woven material will offer
more protection. Wet clothing loses some of
Pass around bottle or tube of sunscreen (30 SPF
its ability to block out the sun’s rays.
or higher) and ask crew to apply it to exposed
• Protect any exposed skin with sunscreen. skin.
Don’t forget your ears and the back of your
Ask them about any risk factors they have for
neck. Use an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it
developing skin cancer. These include:
20 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
• Fair skin that burns easily
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours or as
often as recommended by the manufacturer. • Blistering sunburns in childhood and
The more you sweat, the more often you need adolescence
to reapply. • Family history of melanoma
• Use a UV-blocking lip balm and reapply every • Many freckles and moles on skin.
two hours. Skin cancer can develop on lips.

122 Occupational Health

Heat stress
Explain dangers Treatment
If a co-worker shows symptoms of heat stroke,
When your body loses too much sweat through you should act fast.
heavy labour or working under hot, humid • Call the local emergency number or get the
conditions, you can become dehydrated. worker to a hospital.
If your body doesn’t have enough water to cool • Take steps to cool the worker down (e.g., put
itself down, your temperature can rise above them in a tub of cool water or give them a
38°C. That’s when you can get a heat-related cool shower, spray them with a hose, or wrap
illness such as them in a cool, wet sheet and fan rapidly).
• Heat rash (plugged sweat glands) • If the worker is unconscious, don’t give them
• Heat cramps (salt loss from sweating) anything to drink.
• Heat exhaustion
Identify controls
• Heat stroke.
Let’s take a look at two serious heat illnesses: • When temperatures start to increase in the
1. Heat exhaustion spring, your body needs to become used to
working in the heat. Don’t overdo it too fast.
2. Heat stroke. Even after a holiday or long weekend, you
HEAT EXHAUSTION is when your body cannot may need to get used to the heat again.
keep blood flowing both to vital organs and to • Wear light, loose clothing and use PPE that
the skin for cooling. allows sweat to evaporate. Light-coloured
Symptoms garments absorb less heat from the sun.
• Weakness, feeling faint • Drink at least 1 cup (250 ml) of water every
• Headache half hour. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

• Breathlessness • Avoid coffee, tea, beer, or carbonated soft

drinks that can make you go to the bathroom.
• Nausea or vomiting
• Avoid eating hot, heavy meals that can
• Difficulty continuing work. increase your body temperature.
Treatment • Try to do any heavy, physical work early in the
Get medical aid and cool down (move to a day before it gets too hot.
shaded area, loosen clothing, and drink cool • Be alert to any symptoms of heat stress in
water). yourself and your co-workers.
It takes 30 minutes at least to cool the body • Remember that your physical condition can
down from heat exhaustion. If it’s not treated reduce your ability to deal with the heat. Age,
quickly, it can lead to heat stroke. weight, fitness level, health conditions (e.g.,
HEAT STROKE is a serious medical emergency. heart disease or high blood pressure), recent
You can die from it. Your body has used up all illness, or medications can all affect your
its water and salt and cannot cool itself. Your ability to withstand high temperatures.
temperature rises to dangerous levels.
Symptoms Demonstrate
• Confusion and irrational behaviour Show your crew the location of any cooling
• Convulsions or loss of consciousness stations, water fountains, or shaded break areas
• Lack of sweating—hot, dry skin on the site.

• High body temperature—40°C or more. If your company has a heat stress policy, review it
with them.

Occupational Health 123

Cold stress
Explain dangers Treatment
• Hypothermia can kill—get medical aid
When you’re cold, blood vessels in your skin, immediately.
arms, and legs constrict, decreasing the blood • Carefully move the person to a shelter.
flow to your arms and legs. This helps your critical (Sudden movement can upset heart rhythm.)
organs stay warm, but you risk frostbite in your
extremities. • Keep the person awake. Remove any wet
clothing and wrap them in warm covers.
Cold-related illnesses and injuries can cause
permanent tissue damage or death. • Apply direct body heat—rewarm neck, chest,
abdomen, and groin, but not extremities.
FROSTBITE • If conscious, give warm, sweet drinks.
This means that your flesh freezes. Blood vessels
are damaged and the reduced blood flow can
lead to gangrene. Frostbitten skin looks waxy
Identify controls
and feels numb. Once tissue becomes hard, it’s a
medical emergency. • Wear several layers of clothing rather than
one thick layer to capture air as an insulator.
Treatment • Wear synthetic fabrics next to the skin to
• Get medical aid. “wick” away sweat.
• Warm the area with body heat—do not rub. • If conditions require, wear a waterproof or
wind-resistant outer layer.
• Don’t thaw hands and feet unless medical
aid is far away and there’s no chance of • Wear warm gloves, hats, and hoods. You may
refreezing. It’s best to thaw body parts at a also need a balaclava.
hospital. • Tight-fitting footwear restricts blood flow. You
should be able to wear either one thick or two
HYPOTHERMIA
thin pairs of socks.
This means that your core temperature has
• If your clothing gets wet at 2°C or less,
dropped.
change into dry clothes immediately and get
Moderate symptoms checked for hypothermia.
• Shivering • If you get hot while working, open your jacket
but keep your hat and gloves on.
• Blue lips and fingers
• Take warm, high-calorie drinks and food.
• Slow breathing and heart rate
• Disorientation and confusion
Demonstrate
• Poor coordination.
Ask your crew if they understand wind chill.
Severe symptoms
Explain that it speeds up heat loss and give them
• Unconsciousness the following examples:
• Heart slowdown to the point where pulse is • If the air temperature is –30°C with 16 km/h
irregular or hard to find wind (strong enough to fully extend a flag),
• No shivering your skin can freeze in about a minute.
• No detectable breathing. • If the air temperature is –30°C with 48 km/h
wind, your skin can freeze in 30 seconds.
Although these symptoms resemble death,
always assume the person is alive. Show the crew where they can get some relief
from the cold (e.g., a heated shelter) and some
hot food and warm, sweet drinks.

124 Occupational Health

Winter hazards
Explain dangers PREVENT SLIPS AND FALLS
• Clean the ice and snow off the soles of your
The cold temperatures and icy conditions that boots, off the rungs of laggers, and from
are often a part of Canadian winters can cause access areas and work platforms.
hazards at the workplace. These hazards include: • Use sand, salt, or other de-icing material. (Ice
Cold stress—Exposure to the cold can lead to often forms on the underside of platform
frostbite and hypothermia. materials, so don’t just turn them over.)
Hypothermia—The body can no longer maintain • When working at height, be extra careful in
its core temperature, causing persistent shivering, the morning since there may be new frost and
confusion, and poor coordination. snow.
Frostbite—Parts of the body are exposed to • Watch your footing. Platforms may be clear in
extremely cold temperatures or come into sunny areas but icy in the shade.
contact with cold objects, causing the tissues to • When walking, have at least one hand free to
freeze. help keep your balance and cushion a fall.
Slips and falls—Ice, snow, slush, wet surfaces, and
mud (during a thaw) can cause slips and falls. A PREVENT EXPOSURE TO CO GAS
slip on the ground can cost you weeks off work. A • When heating an enclosed space, use an
slip at height can cost you your life. indirect-fired heater.
Carbon monoxide (CO)—Fuel-fired heaters can • Check propane vehicle-cab heaters for leaks
release CO gas. CO is a clear, colourless gas that and proper venting.
you can’t smell or taste. It interferes with your
• Operate engines outdoors when possible.
body’s ability to use oxygen. Even in small doses,
it can kill you. • When engines must be operated indoors,
take the following precautions:
Identify controls – Choose electric rather than fuel-powered
equipment.
PREVENT COLD-RELATED HEALTH PROBLEMS – Make sure the area is well ventilated. Keep
• Wear several thin layers of clothing instead of doors and windows open, and use fans to
one thick layer. bring in fresh air.

• Wear synthetic fabrics such as polypropylene – Monitor CO levels regularly with a gas
next to the skin because it wicks away sweat. detector.

• Wear gloves, as well as a hat or other head Demonstrate

covering that can fit under a hard hat.
• Wear one pair of thick socks or two pairs If there is a warming station on site, show your
of thin socks. Be aware that tight-fitting crew the location. Encourage them to use it at
footwear restricts blood flow. regular intervals. If they begin shivering or show
• If you get hot when you’re working, open signs of frostbite, fatigue, drowsiness, irritability,
your jacket but keep your hat and gloves on. or euphoria, they should go to the shelter
immediately.
• To prevent contact frostbite, wear insulated
gloves when surfaces (especially metallic Explain that workers entering the shelter should
ones) are colder than -7°C. remove their outer layer of clothing and loosen
other clothing to let sweat evaporate.
• Use tools and machines with controls that are
designed to be operated by gloved hands. Ask workers to describe any winter-related
problems they’ve had with wearing PPE, driving
• If your clothing gets wet, change it defensively, or operating heaters and gas-
immediately and get treated for hypothermia. powered engines.

Occupational Health 125

Asbestos—Type 1 operations (low risk)
Before giving this safety talk, ensure the type of Identify controls
asbestos operation has been confirmed.
• Before beginning work, use a damp cloth or
Explain dangers HEPA vacuum to clean up any visible dust.
• Use a HEPA vacuum or damp mop to clean up
Asbestos is a fibre that was used in many building asbestos dust and waste on a regular basis so
materials up until the 1980s. Some products that it doesn’t build up.
are installed today still contain asbestos.
• Take steps to control the spread of dust to
Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause other work areas. Use drop sheets or other
• Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs making it suitable material.
difficult to breathe) • Wet drop sheets and dispose of them
• Lung cancer immediately after clean-up.
• Mesothelioma (cancer in the lining of the • Dispose of all asbestos waste and coveralls
chest and/or abdomen). in suitable, dust-tight containers labeled
with warning signs. Remove waste from the
Quick Facts about Mesothelioma workplace frequently.
1. Most people who get Mesothelioma have • Rigid barriers or portable enclosures must be
been exposed to asbestos. damp wiped or HEPA vacuumed. Otherwise,
do not reuse them. Never reuse drop sheets.
2. Mesothelioma is an extremely painful
disease. • Never used compressed air to clean the work
area.
3. There is no cure for Mesothelioma.
• For non-friable asbestos, wet the material
4. People usually live for only two years once using a wetting agent and only use non-
diagnosed. powered hand tools.
• Don’t eat, drink, chew gum, or smoke in areas
There are three types of asbestos operations where asbestos could be present.
under Ontario law: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3.
• Although the risk of exposure to asbestos is
In Type 1 operations, the risk of asbestos exposure low for Type 1 operations, you may choose to
to workers is low if specific procedures are use a respirator and protective clothing.
followed.
• All personal protective equipment such as
Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in Type respirators or protective coveralls must be
1 operations are non-friable. The fibres in the damp wiped or HEPA vacuumed before
material are locked in by cement, vinyl, or another leaving the work area.
binding agent.
• Always wash your face and hands before
However, cutting, grinding, abrading, sanding, leaving the work area.
breaking, drilling, or vibrating the material may be
• Restrict access to the work area where
enough to release the fibres.
asbestos work is being done.
Some common types of non-friable asbestos-
containing materials include Demonstrate
• Gaskets
Using the owner’s record or report of asbestos (if
• Asbestos cement
applicable), review the following with your crew:
• Vinyl tiles and acoustical plaster and tiles
• The location of ACM on site
• Roofing felts
• The areas to keep away from
• Drywall joint-filling compounds
• The specific procedures to follow.

126 Occupational Health

Asbestos—Type 2 operations (medium risk)
Before giving this safety talk, ensure the type of • A NIOSH-approved respirator must be used
asbestos operation has been confirmed. when working in the area.
• Use rubber boots to keep dust out.
Explain dangers • Use a HEPA vacuum or damp mop to clean up
asbestos dust and waste on a regular basis so
Asbestos is a fibre that was used in many building it doesn’t build up.
materials up until the 1980s. Some products that
are installed today still contain asbestos. • Do not allow workers without adequate
personal protective equipment (PPE) into the
Breathing in asbestos fibres can cause work area. Ensure warning signs are in place.
• Asbestosis (scarring of the lungs making it • An enclosure must be set up if you intend on
difficult to breathe) removing a false ceiling if ACM is likely to be
• Lung cancer lying on the surface.
• Mesothelioma (cancer in the lining of the • If you disturb less than 1 m2 of friable
chest and/or abdomen). asbestos, it must be done inside an enclosure.
If more than 1 m2, this may be considered a
Quick Facts about Mesothelioma Type 3 asbestos operation.
1. Most people who get Mesothelioma have • Place asbestos waste, disposable clothing,
been exposed to asbestos. enclosures, barrier materials, and other
contaminated items into a labeled dust-tight
2. Mesothelioma is an extremely painful container. Damp wipe or HEPA vacuum the
disease. waste containers before removing them from
3. There is no cure for Mesothelioma. the work area.
4. People usually live for only two years once • All personal protective equipment such as
diagnosed. respirators or protective coveralls must be
damp wiped or HEPA vacuumed before
leaving the work area.
There are three types of asbestos operations
under Ontario law: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. • Never reuse drop sheets.
In Type 2 operations, the risk of asbestos • Never used compressed air to clean the work
exposure to workers is medium. Since exposure is area.
likely to occur, precautions must be taken. • Don’t eat, drink, chew gum, or smoke in areas
Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) can be where asbestos could be present.
“friable” or “non-friable”. • Always wash your face and hands before
Friable ACM is easily crumbled or pulverized with leaving the work area.
the fingers.
Non-friable ACM is held together by some type Demonstrate
of binding agent.
Using the owner’s record or report of asbestos (if
applicable), review the following with your crew:
Identify controls
• The location of ACM on site
• Before the work begins, wet the ACM using a • The areas to keep away from
wetting agent if safe to do so. • The specific procedures to follow, including
• Disposable coveralls must be worn. Keep the signage to warn others of the work.
wrists, ankles, and neck snug to prevent entry Review the specific type of respirator required for
of dust. If your coveralls tear, replace them this job.
immediately.

Occupational Health 127

Lead
List lead hazards on site. Severe lead poisoning may cause much more
serious symptoms such as anemia and kidney,
nerve, and brain damage. It has also caused
___________________________________ miscarriages and stillbirths in pregnant women
and reduced sperm count in men.
___________________________________
Identify controls
___________________________________
• Lead is a designated substance under Ontario
law. It requires special precautions and
handling procedures. Your employer must
inform you about any lead on a jobsite.

Explain dangers • If you’re unsure about the presence of lead or

you suspect that there’s lead in places where
you weren’t warned about, tell your employer.
Exposure to lead is most common among
plumbers, welders, painters, and demolition • If you’re welding, cutting, burning, or heating
workers. products containing lead, make sure you have
local exhaust ventilation.
You’re most at risk when there’s lead dust, fume,
or vapour in the air. For instance, in the following • On power tools that can generate lead-
situations: containing dust, use dust-collection systems.
• Working with lead and metals containing lead • Wear a respirator and protective clothing.
such as solder Protective clothing includes coveralls, gloves,
and eye protection such as safety glasses,
• Applying or removing paints containing lead goggles, or face shields.
• Installing or removing sheet metal containing • Change out of work clothes and shoes at the
lead end of each shift and leave them at work.
• Hot cutting on material containing lead • Never take protective clothing home for
• Renovating, demolishing, and doing other washing or cleaning. You could poison your
work on structures or material containing lead family.
• Removing mortar from stone walls. • Practice a high standard of personal hygiene—
Lead gets into your body mainly through wash up thoroughly after each exposure to
lead. Wash and shower at the end of a shift.
• Inhalation (i.e., breathing in dusts, mists, and
fumes) • Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in
places that may have lead contamination.
• Ingestion (i.e., eating, drinking, smoking, biting
nails, etc., without first washing your hands • Get rid of any lead waste at the end of each
and face). day or shift in an appropriate manner.

Symptoms of overexposure to lead include

Demonstrate
• Headaches
• Fatigue Explain the site-specific lead control measures on
• Irritability the project with your crew.
• Pains in joints and muscles Review the section on lead in IHSA’s Respirator
Selection Chart in Chapter 15 of the Construction
• Abdominal pain Health and Safety Manual (M029) and make sure
• Constipation. they have the proper PPE for the tasks assigned.

128 Occupational Health

Lead-based paint—Welding and cutting
• To prevent lead from being tracked home
A U.S. study of lead-exposed construction
or into your car, change out of work clothes
workers found that the children of these
at the end of the work shift and leave them
workers were six times more likely to also have
at work or place them into a plastic bag for
high levels of lead in their blood.
washing. Do not wash them together with
According to the study, regular laundry.
• only half of the workers changed clothes • Place signs in the work area to warn workers
before the end of their shift of the lead hazard. Ensure nearby workers
• almost all washed their work clothes at obey them.
home • You should have at a minimum a half-mask
• half wore their work shoes home particulate respirator with N, R, or P filter and
95, 99, or 100% efficiency. Inspect it to ensure
• most did not shower at work before coming it does not have any holes, it fits snugly, and
home. that the straps fit properly around your head.
Coatings should be stripped at least four inches
on both sides of the weld or cut line. Do not burn
Explain dangers off coatings to strip. If the coating is not stripped
and you are cutting or welding repeatedly and
If you weld, cut, or heat metals containing lead- for a long time, additional measures are required.
based coatings, you may be at risk of breathing in They include:
lead. • Using a more efficient respiratory protection
Lead is also hazardous if swallowed. It can such as
contaminate your skin or clothes and find its way – a full facepiece air-purifying respirator
onto food, drinks, cigarettes, or anything that equipped with N, R, or P filter and with
comes in contact with your mouth. 100% efficiency
Lead can be tracked into your home or car – a tight-fitting powered air-purifying
and possibly expose family and friends. Lead is respirator with a high-efficiency filter
especially dangerous for children. – a half-facepiece or full-facepiece supplied-
Some of the health effects associated with lead air respirator in continuous flow
exposure include – a half-facepiece supplied-air respirator
• Damage to the nervous system and kidneys in pressure demand or other positive
pressure mode.
• Cramps, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss
• Reduction in red blood cells (anemia)
• Using a partial or full enclosure around the
welding or cutting activity
• Abortion in pregnant women or infertility in
men.
• Ensuring that local exhaust ventilation is
provided and used
Exposure to lead may lead to lung or stomach
cancer, as shown by experimental animal studies.
• Cleaning up the work area regularly by
using a HEPA vacuum, wet sweeping, or wet
shoveling method.
Identify controls
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in the
Demonstrate
work area. Do not store food nearby.
If the paint has been tested for lead, review the
• Wash your hands with soap and water before report with the crew.
breaks and at the end of the work shift.
Using the manufacturer’s instructions, show them
Be sure to scrub under your nails and use
how to perform a seal check of the respirator.
disposable towels.

Occupational Health 129

Spray polyurethane foam insulation
List spray foam insulation areas on site. Identify controls

___________________________________
• Read the safety data sheet (SDS) for spray
foam insulation to understand the hazards
and how to protect yourself.
___________________________________
• Enclose the spray areas and allow only those
workers with proper protection to enter.
___________________________________
• If possible, schedule all other types of work at
least 30 minutes after spraying has stopped
to allow the foam to cure.
• Ventilate the area using an air mover and
Explain dangers introduce fresh air into the space by using an
air blower.
You are at risk if you work with freshly applied • If you spray polyurethane foam insulation,
polyurethane foam insulation or work near you should wear a full facepiece supplied-
someone who does. air respirator with breathing air taken from a
Spray polyurethane foam insulation can contain clean area.
isocyanates, which are chemicals that can cause • The helper and other tradespeople who must
a severe allergic reaction and lead to breathing work in the restricted area should wear a full
difficulties (i.e., asthma attack). facepiece air-purifying respirator equipped
It may take time to develop the allergy (weeks or with a combination organic vapour/N100 filter
years). But once you have become allergic, just cartridge. Check with the manufacturer to see
one drop of isocyanate can trigger an asthma how often the cartridge should be changed.
attack. • Before using a respirator, you must be fit
Other health hazards associated with isocyanates tested and trained to correctly use and
include maintain it.
• Irritation to the skin, eyes, nose, throat, and • Avoid skin contact by using rubber gloves and
lungs coveralls when spraying.
• Coughing, chest pain, and fluid in lungs • Wash your hands and face before eating,
drinking, and smoking and after you’re
• Difficulty breathing.
finished working with insulation.
• Secure and cover containers of liquid
isocyanates to prevent evaporation.

Demonstrate
Get an SDS for spray foam polyurethane
insulation and review its ingredients and its
recommended exposure controls/personal
protection requirements with your crew.
Review your company’s rules and procedures on
respirators.

130 Occupational Health

Dry-ice blasting
• Noise levels from blasting are extremely high.
During dry-ice blasting, the carbon dioxide
You must use earplugs and earmuffs together
levels can be three to four times higher than
at the same time.
reasonable limits. Normal air contains about
21.8% oxygen, but during dry-ice blasting, the • Carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the air
oxygen level can drop to 20.3%. Noise levels should be monitored continuously. If carbon
can also be very high at 800 times greater than dioxide levels become too high or oxygen
the allowable limit of 85 decibels (dBA). At this levels become too low, follow the procedures
level, workers can be overexposed to noise in as outlined by your supervisor.
little as 30 seconds. • If the work area is enclosed, keep flaps to
the enclosed workspace closed as much as
possible. Report any defects or holes on the
Explain dangers flaps immediately.
• Post warning signs around entrances to the
Dry ice is used to remove mould contamination enclosure to prevent unauthorized entry.
from surfaces. When the rice-sized pellets are • Full-body disposable coveralls and boot
blasted against a surface, they disintegrate and covers are recommended to reduce exposure
change to carbon dioxide gas. The mould, along to dust.
with other debris, becomes airborne and later
falls to the ground. • If a decontamination facility is used, follow the
entry/exit procedures.
During this process, workers must be aware of
certain hazards: • Use a HEPA vacuum or damp cloth to remove
visible contaminants from your person before
• Mould exposure can cause health effects such leaving the work area.
as eye, nose, and throat irritation similar to
asthma-like reactions or infections. • Dispose of contaminated materials in 6-ml
bags and seal them. The disposal bag should
• High levels of carbon dioxide can cause then be wiped down and placed into a second
a sense of heaviness in your chest. At bag.
high levels, it can also displace oxygen
from the work area and cause you to lose
consciousness. Demonstrate
• High noise levels can cause hearing loss.
Have every member of the crew inspect their
• Wood dust can irritate the eyes, nose, and respiratory protection devices for damaged
throat. facepieces, straps, valves, etc. Hoses and
• Dry ice pellets can cause frostbite. regulators should also be checked.
Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations
Identify controls for appropriate inspection and maintenance
procedures.
• Always wear the correct type of respiratory Demonstrate the proper selection and use
protection. A supplied-air respirator is the of hearing protection according to the
only device suitable to protect you against manufacturer’s instructions.
mould, high levels of carbon dioxide, and
oxygen deficiency.
• Ventilate the work space using mechanical
ventilation.
• The temperature of dry ice is about -70°C.
Always wear gloves that are in good condition
to prevent contact with skin.

Occupational Health 131

Skin hazards—Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)
List ACD hazards on site. Identify controls
• Know the skin hazards on the jobsite. Read
___________________________________
the label or safety data sheet (SDS) for a
controlled product before using it. Look for
___________________________________ phrases such as “skin sensitization” or “skin
irritant”.
___________________________________ • Use gloves and other protective equipment
specific to the hazard (consult the SDS).
• Avoid activities that may degrade your skin
and increase the risk of sensitization.
Explain dangers
• Avoid excessive hand washing and don’t work
with wet hands.
Some materials you use at work can cause a non-
infectious skin disease called “dermatitis”. There • Use mild soaps when washing your hands.
are two types of dermatitis: Don’t use solvents.
1. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) • Apply hand cream to prevent your skin from
drying out.
2. Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD).
After prolonged or repeated skin contact with
• Inspect your clothing throughout the shift
for contamination, in particular your knees,
some materials, you may become “sensitized”.
forearms and boots. If contaminated, change
Your skin will break out and become red, dry,
into dry clothing and wash the affected area.
itchy with blisters, and swollen.
Once sensitized, your body will not tolerate
• If working with wet concrete, tape the top
of your boots to your pants, and tape your
contact with the material, even when touching
gloves to your wrists to prevent contact.
small amounts. Sensitization usually lasts a
lifetime, meaning you may never be able to work
with the material again. Demonstrate
Common causes of ACD on the jobsite include
Show workers the proper types of gloves to use
• Organic solvents in paints and how to prevent materials from contacting
• Epoxy resins (especially the hardener) their skin or getting trapped in clothing.
• Coal tar
• Chromium in wet concrete
• Formaldehyde
• Natural rubber latex.

You can be at risk of developing ACD from

substances that
• Land on your clothes and seep through to
your skin
• Fall into your boots and stay there
• Land on your skin and mix with sweat
• Rub against your skin in tight spots such as
under your wrist watch
• Splash and land onto your face and neck. Source: Health and Safety Executive

132 Occupational Health

Skin hazards—Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD)
List ICD hazards on site. Identify controls
___________________________________ • Know the skin hazards on site. Read the label
or safety data sheet (SDS) for any controlled
product before using it. Look for phrases such
___________________________________
as “skin sensitization” or “skin irritant”.
• Use gloves and other protective equipment
___________________________________
specific to the hazard (consult the SDS).
• Avoid excessive hand washing and don’t work
with wet hands.
• Use mild soaps when washing your hands.
Don’t use solvents.
Explain dangers
• Apply hand cream to prevent your skin from
drying out.
Some materials you use at work can cause a non-
infectious skin disease called “dermatitis”. There • Inspect your clothing throughout the shift
are two types of dermatitis: for contamination, in particular your knees,
forearms, and boots. If contaminated, change
1. Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD)
into dry clothing and wash the affected area.
2. Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD).
• If working with wet concrete, tape the top
ICD is caused by materials that directly damage of your boots to your pants, and tape your
the skin. Skin becomes dry and tight, swells gloves to your wrists to prevent contact.
up, cracks, and can become painful. Hands and
forearms are most often affected.
Demonstrate
Common causes of ICD on the jobsite include
• Caustics and acids Ask the crew to inspect their hands for signs of
• Chlorinated solvents dryness, redness, flaking, or cracking. These are
early signs of dermatitis and indicate the need for
• Wet concrete stronger skin protection measures.
• Calcium hydroxide Show workers the proper types of gloves and
• Excessive hand washing how to prevent materials from contacting their
skin or getting trapped in clothing.
• Excess friction
• Hot and cold weather.
You can be at risk of developing ICD from
substances that
• Land on your clothes and seep through to
your skin
• Fall into your boots and stay there
• Land on your skin and mix with sweat
• Rub against your skin in tight spots such as
under your wrist watch
• Splash and land onto your face and neck.
ICD can affect you after just a day of heavy
contact or after a longer period of low exposure.
Source: Health and Safety Executive

Occupational Health 133

Welding—Inhalation hazards
Explain dangers Take these steps to help reduce your exposure:
• Keep your head as far away from the fumes as
Welding releases toxic fumes, gases, and vapours possible.
into the air. Breathing in these contaminants can • If welding outdoors, position yourself so the
make you sick if you don’t take steps to protect wind blows from behind you through the weld
yourself. In confined spaces, welding fumes and area and carries the contaminants away from
gases can be much stronger. your breathing zone (wind at back).
Fumes are released when heating the base metal, • Weld on clean metal only. Remove any surface
surface coatings, electrode, and fluxes. coatings, paints, or degreasers. Coatings
Gases are released in welding from shielding should be removed at least four inches on
gases, heating the electrode coverings and fluxes, each side of the weld point.
reactions by ultraviolet radiation, and heating Fume extractors are the best way to reduce your
solvents and other surface coatings. exposure.
Inhaling these contaminants can cause immediate • Position portable hoods as close as possible
health effects such as eye, nose, and throat to the weld to extract the most fume.
irritation or a flu-like condition called “metal
fume fever”. Metal fume fever causes chills, dry • Ensure that the air velocity is enough to
mouth and throat, muscle pain, fatigue, fever, and remove airborne contaminants.
vomiting. • Ensure that the ventilation unit is maintained
Long-term exposure to welding fumes can cause properly. Prior to use, check that fans are
more serious health effects such as: working properly and that filters are in place
and are clean.
• Damage to the nervous system
If adequate ventilation is not available or if the
• Bone damage welding process creates a toxic fume such as
• Fluid in the lungs from stainless steel and beryllium, use respiratory
• Bronchitis protection.

• Loss of consciousness • For low levels of fume that are relatively

non-toxic, a disposable filtering facepiece
• Suffocation respirator may be adequate. Where high levels
• Severe allergies of fume are expected or the fumes are toxic,
a half facepiece respirator with cartridges
• Nasal and lung cancer.
suitable for fume and gases should be used.
• In areas where gases may build up or
Identify controls oxygen may become deficient, a supplied-
air respirator or self-contained breathing
Gather some information before you start apparatus may be needed.
welding to help reduce your exposure to welding
contaminants: • Consult the respirator manufacturer’s guide
for operating conditions and maintenance
• Consult the safety data sheet (SDS) for the procedures.
welding rod to determine the hazardous
components and recommended control
measures. Demonstrate
• Determine the composition of the base metal With the crew, review the SDS for welding rods,
before welding begins.
paying special attention to hazardous ingredients,
health hazard data, and preventive measures.

134 Occupational Health

Working around bird and bat droppings
• When removing large amounts of droppings,
During a work project to demolish an old city use the following types of personal protective
hall, a colony of bats was seen nearby and a equipment (PPE):
buildup of bat guano or droppings was found.
– rubber boots
Workers did not use personal protective
equipment. Within three weeks, a total of – disposable gloves under work gloves
nineteen people had been diagnosed with – disposable coveralls
Histoplasmosis and developed severe breathing
problems that required hospitalization. Some of – respiratory protection.
these people worked on the demolition, some • Respirators should always be worn when
only visited the site, while others only lived or working around bird or bat droppings.
worked nearby. Appropriate respirators could range from
an N95 filtering facepiece for low-risk tasks
to a full facepiece air-purifying respirator or
powered air-purifying respirator for high-risk
tasks.
Explain dangers
Follow these additional procedures to minimize
When working around areas contaminated with the risk of infection:
bird and bat droppings, workers can be exposed • Eliminate the roost (nest) if the building is not
to fungi that can cause serious infections called going to be demolished and seal entry points
Histoplasmosis or Cryptococcosis. if possible.
While fresh bird droppings are not expected to • Avoid disturbing material that could be
contain the fungi, fresh bat droppings may be contaminated to prevent the generation of
contaminated. dust and inhalation of spores.
Disturbing the droppings or contaminated soil • Never dry-sweep or dry-shovel material. Soak
may release tiny particles into the air called the material with water or a wetting agent to
“spores”. The spores can be inhaled and infect a keep dust and spores down.
worker’s lungs. • Use a HEPA vacuum to clean up the
Most people who become infected with the contaminated material (if available).
fungi experience no symptoms, but some may • Dispose of the waste in 6-ml disposal bags
experience mild flu-like symptoms. and follow the disposal procedures outlined in
For some people, especially those with weakened your company’s health and safety policy.
immune systems, the disease can be life- • For larger contamination, a disinfectant may
threatening because it can spread to other areas be used. For these applications, consult the
of the body, become severe, and eventually cause manufacturer’s directions.
death.

Demonstrate
Identify controls
Review the PPE requirements for the job with
Always assume droppings are contaminated. Take workers. Ensure they understand how to use each
the following precautions to reduce your risk of piece of equipment correctly.
infection:
Make sure respirators have been fit tested, and
• If you have a weakened immune system, you show workers how to do a seal check. (Refer to
should consult your doctor before working in the chapter on PPE in IHSA’s Construction Health
the area. and Safety Manual (M029).

Occupational Health 135

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—Risk factors
List MSD hazards on site. 4. Secondary risk factors
Contact pressure is any external pressure
applied to soft tissues of the body. Holding
___________________________________
tools where handles press into parts of the
hand is an example of contact pressure.
___________________________________
Vibration can cause damage to nerves and
blood vessels as well as other soft tissues.
___________________________________ Gloves can be a risk factor if they don’t fit
properly or if they restrict movement of the
fingers and hands.
Explain dangers Temperature—Cold can reduce the range of
motion and flexibility of muscles. Heat can
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries of increase fatigue and limit muscle recovery.
the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints,
cartilage, or spinal discs. Identify controls
MSDs DO NOT include musculoskeletal injuries
that are the direct result of a fall, struck-by event, Two approaches to prevent MSDs are:
vehicle collision, violence, etc. 1. Engineering Controls
Some recognized risk factors for MSDs are: Engineering controls are measures taken
1. Forceful exertion to physically modify the forcefulness,
repetitiveness, awkwardness, or vibration
Force is the amount of effort required to
levels of a job.
perform a task or job—the more force exerted,
the greater the stress on the body. Examples include modifying the workstation
layout as well as selecting and using tools,
Lifting, pushing, pulling, and gripping a tool
work materials, and work methods that will
are examples of activities that require you to
reduce MSD risk.
exert force or muscle effort.
2. Awkward postures 2. Administrative Controls
Administrative controls are management-
Posture is the position of body parts.
directed work practices and policies to reduce
Awkward postures occur when joints are
or prevent exposures to risk factors.
held or moved away from the body’s natural
position. The closer the joint is to its end of Administrative control strategies include
range of motion, the more stress is placed on changes in job rules and procedures such as
the soft tissues of that joint, such as muscles, more rest breaks, job rotation, and training.
nerves, and tendons. The preferred approach is to use engineering
Examples are stooping (bending over), controls and design the job to the capabilities
kneeling, and reaching overhead. and limitations of the workforce. However,
administrative controls can be helpful as
3. Repetitive movements
temporary measures until engineering controls
Movements performed over and over are can be implemented or when engineering
called repetitive movements. Continual stress controls are not practicable.
is placed on one body part without sufficient
muscle recovery time. Repetitive movement
can also be an awkward posture held for a Demonstrate
long time.
Ask the crew to describe any tasks that can
Nailing a deck, screwing drywall, and tying
contribute to MSDs and any solutions that can
rebar are examples of repetitive tasks.
reduce the risk of MSDs.

136 Ergonomics
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)—Controls
Explain dangers WORKING WITH HAND TOOLS
• Use handles that are more comfortable and
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries of give you a better grip.
the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, joints, • Maintain your power tools regularly so that
cartilage, or spinal discs. they run with low vibration.
Risk factors for MSDs include: • Select hand tools that are designed for a
1. Forceful exertion (e.g., lifting, pushing, neutral wrist posture and that reduce the
pulling, and gripping a tool) amount of force required.
2. Awkward postures (e.g., stooping, bending • Use tools that are low torque, low kickback,
over, kneeling, and reaching overhead) and lightweight.
3. Repetitive movements (e.g., nailing a deck, • Use vibration-absorbing padding on grips and
screwing drywall, and tying rebar) handles.
4. Secondary risk factors: WORKING AT GROUND OR FLOOR LEVEL
– Contact pressure • Use tables, benches, or stands to bring work
– Vibration to waist height.

– Poor fitting or restrictive gloves • Store materials at waist height.

– Working in cold or hot temperatures • Change positions (e.g., sit, stoop, or kneel
with kneepads).
• Use pipe stands on pipe and steam fitting
Identify controls jobs, D-handles or longer handles for
shovelling, rebar-tying devices, stand-up
MANUAL HANDLING OF TOOLS AND fastening systems for roof insulation, rug
MATERIALS rippers, carpet stretchers, and pipe/conduit
• Plan ahead to minimize material handling. benders.
• Use carts, dollies, hoists, or other mechanical KNEELING
handling devices. • Use high-quality kneepads.
• Use ladder hoists, gin poles, daisy chains, or • Wear pants with kneepad pockets.
cranes to move materials on or off roofs.
• Take short rest and stretch breaks.
• Use chain falls, motorized buggies, carrying
handles, or extension handles for carrying WORKING OVERHEAD
large or awkward materials such as drywall. • Use drywall lifts, materials lifts, duct jacks,
• Break loads into smaller units. For instance, scissors lifts, and extension poles or stands for
put cement in bags weighing less than 50 lb. tools when doing overhead work.
• Use shoulder pads when carrying loads on • Make use of adjustable scaffolds, aerial
shoulders. work platforms, or other work platforms to
decrease awkward postures.
• Exercise and stretch before starting work.
• Label materials with their weight. Demonstrate
• Get another person to help you lift heavy
objects or awkward loads. Ask your crew to share ideas about how to
• Use proper lifting techniques. Lift with your reduce the risk of MSDs.
legs, do not bend over and lift with your back,
and keep the load close to your body.

Ergonomics 137
Back care—Basic lifting
Explain dangers Demonstrate
Some jobs involve a lot of manual lifting. This can LIFTING PROCEDURE
cause back, neck, and shoulder injuries. Demonstrate the proper lifting procedure below
The risk of injury increases when: as you talk.
• Lifting in cramped spaces 1. Get as close to the load as possible. This is
• Lifting while in awkward positions very important. Our lifting capacity is reduced
the further away we are from the load.
• Lifting heavy or irregular-shaped objects
2. Put yourself in the best possible position for
• Performing repetitive lifting tasks. the lift. Try to avoid twisting from the waist,
If not addressed, these types of injuries can reaching out, and leaning over material or
become so severe that you may not be able to do equipment when you lift.
your job anymore. 3. Use a well-balanced stance with one foot
slightly ahead of the other.
Identify controls 4. Tighten your stomach muscles as you start to
lift.
• Safe lifting starts with planning: 5. Keep your lower back in its normal curved
– Size up the load before you start to lift. position and use your legs to lift.
– Get help from a co-worker if you cannot 6. Pick up your feet and pivot to turn. Don’t twist
handle the load by yourself. your back.
– Use a dolly or other type of material 7. When lowering the load, maintain the curve in
handling equipment whenever you can. your lower back. You can hurt your back just
– Store heavier materials closer to the work as easily lowering a load as lifting it.
location to reduce the distance you will
need to carry it.
– Make sure the path you will travel with the
load is clear.
• Avoid lifting above shoulder height. This
causes your back to arch and puts a lot of
stress on your shoulder and on the small joints
in your spine.
• Avoid storing items on the floor. Store them
between knee-height and shoulder-height.
This prevents you from reaching overhead or
bending at the waist.
• Push rather than pull a load. Pushing lets you
maintain the normal curve in your back and
puts less stress on the spine. TWO-PERSON LIFTING PROCEDURE

• Split large, heavy loads into smaller loads. Partners should be roughly the same height.
Making more trips with smaller loads puts less Before the lift, both partners should agree on:
stress on your back. • the type of lift (waist-high, shoulder-high,
• Don’t try to catch falling objects. Your etc.)
muscles may not have time to coordinate • who will take charge
properly to protect your spine. • how they will lower the load.

138 Ergonomics
Back care—Lifting sheet materials 1
Explain dangers Demonstrate
If you don’t lift large sheet materials like plywood Demonstrate how to lift sheet materials while you
correctly, you risk back, neck, and shoulder talk.
injuries.

Identify controls

3
Stack sheets at a convenient height or store them Bend at the knees, maintaining the
off the ground on blocking or trestles. normal curve in your lower back. Grasp
Here’s how to lift correctly. sheet above and below at mid-point.

1 Grasp sheet on long side at mid-point.

2 Tip sheet up, then slide sheet partway off

pile.
4 Keep back erect while carrying sheet.
Avoid leaning to one side.

Ergonomics 139
Back care—Lifting sheet materials 2
Explain dangers Demonstrate
If you don’t lift large sheet materials like plywood Demonstrate how to lift sheet materials off the
correctly, you risk back, neck, and shoulder floor.
injuries.

Bend knees, keeping back Tip sheet up to Lift sheet slightly and put
as upright as possible. horizontal position. toe under mid-point.

Use a carrying handle to move

Bend at knees, keeping Stand and lift, maintaining sheet material a long distance. If
back upright. Slip free hand the normal curve in your the walking surface is level and
under sheet. lower back. hard, use a drywall cart.

140 Ergonomics
Stretching exercises
Explain dangers Hip stretch
Stand with one foot in
Getting ready for the job means more than lining front of the other. Place
up tools and material. We should get our muscles your hands just above the
ready too. Exercising before work can help knee of your front leg.
prevent back, neck, and shoulder injuries. Gently bend your front
knee. Keep your back foot
Identify controls flat on the floor. Hold 20 to
30 seconds. Repeat with
Warm up first. other leg. Repeat 3 times
for each leg.
Muscles that are warm and loose
are less likely to tear than cold, tight Thigh stretch
ones. Support yourself with one
hand. With your free hand,
March in place bend your leg back and grasp
Stand in position. Pump your arms your ankle. Gently pull your
and legs in opposite directions. ankle towards your body.
Make sure that your heels touch the Keep your trunk straight.
ground. Continue 3 to 5 minutes. Hold 20 to 30 seconds. Then
Arm circles repeat with the other leg.
Repeat 3 times for each leg.
Stand with arms
raised horizontally Calf stretch
and slightly in front of Lean on a solid
shoulders, palms down, support with your
and feet shoulder- outstretched hands.
width apart. Rotate Bend one leg forward
arms in a forward and extend the other
circular motion for 15 leg straight behind
seconds. Relax. Repeat you. Slowly move your
3 to 5 times. hips forward. Keep
the heel of your back
leg on the ground.
CAUTION: Participation must be voluntary. If
Hold 30 seconds,
workers have any doubts about their ability to
relax, and repeat with
do the exercises safely or if they feel any pain,
the other leg. Repeat 3 times for
they should stop immediately.
each leg.

Stretching exercises should be Backward stretch

performed in a slow, controlled Stand up and bend backwards,
manner and held in a sustained holding for 2 to 4 seconds. Repeat
stretch for 20 to 30 seconds. Avoid 3 times. This will help relieve lower-
bouncy, jerky movements. Stretch back muscle tension. Do this stretch
only to a comfortable position. after working in a crouched, bent,
Knee to chest stretch or stooped position.

Support yourself with one hand. Demonstrate

With your free hand, pull your knee
toward your chest and hold it for
Demonstrate each exercise to your crew while
30 seconds. Repeat with the other
you talk. Ask them to do each exercise after you.
leg. Repeat 3 times for each leg.

Ergonomics 141
Whole-body vibration (WBV)
Explain dangers • Slow down when driving over potholes and
rough terrain such as shale or rock.
Heavy equipment operators are exposed to • Get out of your vehicle (in a safe location) for
vibration from bulldozers, backhoes, loaders, skid a few minutes every hour to stand, stretch,
steers, excavators, and other machines (see chart and give your body a break from vibration.
below). • Store materials closer to the work location
The three main sources of whole-body vibration to limit the distance you have to travel. (The
(WBV) from heavy equipment are: layout of a site can be designed to reduce the
1. Low-frequency vibration caused by the tires need to transport materials.)
and terrain • Use unmanned equipment to move material
2. High-frequency vibration from the engine and where possible (e.g., remote-controlled
transmission conveyors).

3. Shock from running into potholes or • Take extra precautions during cold weather.
obstacles. Wear warm, waterproof clothing so that
muscles and ligaments stay loose and don’t
To determine the health effects of WBV, tighten up.
comparisons were made between operators
of heavy equipment and workers in a similar
environment who were not exposed to WBV. Demonstrate
With short-term exposure to vibration magnitude
Ask the crew to describe any problems they have
at 1 m/s2, workers reported symptoms such as:
had with WBV.
• Abdominal and chest pain
Using the vibration chart below, show workers the
• Headaches vibration level of the equipment they wll be using.
• Nausea
Vibration Magnitude of Equipment
• Loss of balance.
Long-term exposure to WBV can cause serious
health problems, in particular those related to the Mobile Crane
Concrete Trowel Vehicle
spine and the gastrointestinal system. Forklift
Excavator
Grader
Identify controls Vibratory Compactor
Zoom Boom
Non-Vibratory Compactor
Until improved equipment comes on the market, Large Bulldozer
heavy equipment operators should do the Tracked Loader
Backhoe
following to reduce WBV.
Small Bulldozer
• Report any poorly maintained equipment to Rubber Tire Loader
Regular Skid Steer Vehicle
your supervisor. A good suspension system Articulated Haul Truck
and correct tire pressure will help to reduce Mini Skid Steer Vehicle
vibration. Scraper
00 0.5 1.0 1.5
• Report any rough terrain to your supervisor
Mean Acceleration (m/s2)
Other workers may be able to level or smooth
out the road.
NOTE: For eight hours of continuous work, the
• If your seat has hydraulic dampers and shock magnitude of vibration should not exceed 0.5 m/s2.
absorbers, adjust the seat to your weight and
height. Source: ISO 2631—The European Vibration Directive.

142 Ergonomics
Welding—MSDs
Explain dangers REDUCING FORCEFUL EXERTION
• Use auto-darkening lenses. They darken as
Welding presents workers with a number of soon as the arc is struck, eliminating the need
hazards. The most common are: to keep opening and closing your helmet. This
• Metal fumes reduces neck strain.

• Welding arc light (both visible light and • Use mechanical lifting equipment whenever
invisible ultraviolet light) you can, particularly when loading or
unloading material.
• Particles getting in your eyes
• Pre-assemble parts and use material handling
• Burns equipment to help reduce unnecessary lifting.
• Noise. • Use height-adjustable mobile lift tables for
Welding also comes with the risk of developing transporting material into the workshop.
a musculoskeletal disorder (MSD). Most studies These tables can also be used to support
have found that the main contributing factors to material when you’re loading machines. A
MSDs come from work conditions such as: smaller table can be used for smaller sheets
of metal or machines such as a punch press.
• Awkward postures from squatting, kneeling, The larger table can be used for the “break
or stooping due to the confined or tight
and bending presses” as well as incoming
locations
materials.
• Lifting heavy equipment or materials • When you have to lift, ask someone to help
• Keeping your neck bent or keeping your you.
shoulders raised for a long time
REDUCING AWKWARD POSTURES
• Increased stress on your neck from supporting • Position the work at a height between your
the heavy weight of a hard hat and welding
waist and your shoulder.
mask.
• Use lifting and turning tables with wheels.
These conditions can lead to MSDs such as back,
shoulder, neck, or knee problems. • Use welding guns that have swivels and can
be used in either hand.
Identify controls • Sit on a work stool when the work is low.
• Use a work table or workbench instead of
You can prevent MSDs associated with welding by bending over to work on the ground.
reducing or eliminating: • Use a rotating clamp for pipe.
1. Forceful exertion (e.g., heavy lifting). • Put your welding leads on pulleys.
2. Awkward postures (eg. body positions where • Take stretch breaks throughout the day
you don’t move for a long time). to relieve discomfort and get the muscles
moving.

Demonstrate
More than half of the injuries to welders involve
the back, neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. Ask
workers to describe any problems they have had
to these parts of the body.
Discuss how those problems can be avoided.

Ergonomics 143
Flying forms—MSDs
Explain dangers
Flying forms are popular because they can save
time and, in some cases, are safer than using
built-in-place methods. Although there are some
advantages to using flying forms, there are also
some disadvantages. Flying forms have some
significant hazards associated with them that can
lead to serious injury if proper precautions aren’t
taken.
One of the significant risks of working with flying
forms is musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs
are injuries of the muscles, nerves, tendons,
ligaments, joints, cartilage, or spinal discs. They
typically occur after years of work involving
excessive force, awkward positions, and repetitive
tasks. • If you have to carry heavy materials because
Although flying forms are moved by heavy a cart or other device is not available, use
equipment from one area to another, it’s the shoulder pads.
workers who must assemble them. The tasks • Place heavy materials close to your work area
involved in assembling the forms can put you at to reduce the carrying distance.
risk of developing an MSD.
• Use sawhorses or a raised bench to cut
Some of these hazardous tasks are plywood.
• bending and kneeling to cut or nail material • Whenever possible, store heavy materials
• bending or kneelng to assemble forms below at least at standing knee height to avoid
knee level bending.
• working in tight spaces • Use proper lifting techniques. Lift materials
with your legs rather than bending over and
• carrying and lifting heavy forms, shoring, lifting with your back. Keep the load close to
steel, and wood columns
your body.
• working with hand tools such as wrenches, • Consider using pre-assembled, engineer-
hammers, and pry bars
approved guardrail systems instead of
• putting pressure on your shoulders while building wooden guardrails and posts at the
carrying large objects or kneeling on the jobsite.
ground
• the repetitive motion of hammering, which Demonstrate
can impact your wrists and arms.
Identify all transportation devices available on site
Identify controls that workers can use (e.g., carts, lift trucks).
Demonstrate the proper technique for lifting.
• Get help from a co-worker if something is too Survey the work area and provide tips for
heavy for you to handle safely.
improvement (e.g., store material closer to work
• Use mechanical equipment such as cranes, areas, ensure work tables are the proper height).
forklifts, or backhoes to lift or move heavy
objects.
• Use a cart to transport materials.

144 Ergonomics
Driving—MSDs
• Adjust the steering wheel for a comfortable
A truck driver on a long trip across Canada arm position. Positioning your hands at 3
started feeling discomfort in his lower back. o’clock and 9 o’clock and supporting your
He continued driving and made as few stops elbows on the armrest is recommended.
as possible in order to reach his destination
• If the seat has an air suspension system,
quickly. His discomfort became worse but he
adjust it so that the seat is comfortable and
tried to ignore it—the pain had always gone
provides support.
away in the past.
• Try to get out of your vehicle every hour or
Once he reached his destination, he had
two to stand, stretch, and move around for a
trouble walking and was not able to get a
few minutes. Changing your posture will help
restful sleep because of his back pain. The
reduce stiffness and fatigue.
driver ended up missing a month of work
and needed therapy to treat his back pain. • Don’t do any heavy lifting immediately after
a long period of driving. Take a few minutes
to walk around until your back regains its
structural integrity.
Explain dangers • Try not to drive with your wallet in your back
pocket. This can put extra pressure on your
Even when you’re sitting still in a moving vehicle, sciatic nerve and cause your spine to become
your body is subjected to external forces that can misaligned.
increase your risk of developing lower back pain.
• Maintain a good sitting posture by putting a
These forces include: roll or cushion between your lower back and
• The accelerations and decelerations of the the seat to keep the natural curve in your
vehicle lower back.
• The swaying of the vehicle from side to side • Don’t sit in one position for a long time.
Change your position by arching your back to
• The vibration from the engine and rough road reduce muscle tension or adjusting the lumbar
conditions.
support on your seat.
Because your hands and feet are actively involved
• Use the cruise control function in your car
in the driving task, they are not able to support
if you have it and it’s safe to do so. It allows
and stabilize your lower body to offset these
you adjust the position of your feet and gives
external forces.
them a break from the driving task.
In order to stabilize the upper body, the lower
• Use heated seats if you have them, even in the
back muscles have to be constantly active. As a
warm months. Heat will help relax tight joints
result, these muscles become fatigued leading to
and muscles and ease back pain.
muscle pain in the lower back.

Identify controls Demonstrate

Ask your workers to describe any back problems
• Adjust the seat for a comfortable sitting they have had while driving.
position that gives you full access to the
vehicle controls. Sitting close to the steering Show workers a comfortable sitting position
wheel prevents you from slouching. Sitting while driving. With feet on the pedals, recline the
too far away may cause you to stain to reach seat to a 100 to 110 degree angle (shoulders will
the pedals. be slightly behind the hips) and move the seat
backward or forwards until the knees are the
• Adjust the mirrors so that you have good same height as the hips.
visibility while maintaining a neutral neck
position.

Ergonomics 145
Report Form
Title of Safety Talk

Company Project

Talk given by Date

Crew attending

List other topics discussed during the talk

Concerns Response/follow-up

Signed
Title

Use this master to make copies. Fill out a report form for each talk delivered.
Retain a copy for company records.

146 Forms
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