Construction Safety and Ontario Regulations

Date: 2025-09-22

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To provide an overview of key safety requirements and regulations for construction projects in Ontario, ensuring compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its associated regulations.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers essential aspects of construction safety in Ontario, focusing on legal requirements and best practices to protect workers and prevent incidents. It is based on the O. Reg. 213/91 Construction Projects Regulation.

Key Points

• Constructor Responsibilities: The constructor is responsible for overall project safety, including registering the project, posting required notices, and establishing emergency procedures. They must also appoint competent supervisors and ensure all workers have access to communication systems for emergencies. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 13 outlines posting requirements. [4]
• Worker Training and Competency: Workers must be adequately trained and instructed on the equipment they use and the hazards they may face. Training records must be maintained and available for inspection. Competent workers are essential for safe operations, and they must be qualified by knowledge, training, and experience. O. Reg. 213/91 defines a competent worker in S. 1(1). [3]
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers must wear appropriate PPE, including protective headwear and footwear, at all times on a construction project. Employers are responsible for ensuring PPE is suitable, properly fitted, and that workers are trained in its use. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 21(1) states that A worker shall wear such protective clothing and use such personal protective equipment or devices as are necessary to protect the worker against the hazards to which the worker may be exposed. [5]
• Fall Protection: Fall protection is critical when working at heights. Guardrail systems, travel restraint systems, fall restricting systems, and fall arrest systems must be used where workers may be exposed to falls of 3 meters or more, or 1.2 meters or more if the area is used for wheelbarrows or similar equipment. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 26 outlines scenarios where fall protection is needed. [5]
• Elevating Work Platforms: Workers who operate elevating work platforms must be properly trained. The elevating work platform should be inspected each day before use, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions by a trained worker. The owner of an elevating work platform shall maintain it such that the safety factors of the original design are maintained. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 147(1) outlines elevating work platform training. [1]
• Cranes and Hoisting: Crane operators must be certified or trained, and cranes must be inspected and maintained according to regulations and manufacturer's specifications. Load limits must be strictly adhered to, and safety devices must be in good working order. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 150(1) outlines requirements for crane operators. [2]
• Hygiene and Sanitation: Constructors must provide adequate and accessible hygiene facilities for workers, including toilets and washing facilities. These facilities must be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. O. Reg. 213/91, S. 29 outlines requirements for hygiene facilities.

Hazard Identification

• Falls from heights: Serious injury or death
• Struck by falling objects: Head injury, fractures, or death
• Electrocution: Burns, cardiac arrest, or death
• Equipment malfunction: Injury due to unexpected movement or collapse
• Exposure to hazardous substances: Skin irritation, respiratory problems, or long-term health issues

Control Measures

• Use fall protection equipment: Ensure proper use of harnesses, lanyards, and guardrails when working at heights. Inspect equipment before each use.
• Wear hard hats and safety footwear: Always wear appropriate head and foot protection to prevent injuries from falling objects or punctures.
• Lockout/Tagout procedures: Follow proper lockout/tagout procedures before servicing or repairing equipment to prevent accidental start-up.
• Hazardous substance control: Use proper ventilation, PPE, and handling procedures when working with hazardous substances. Ensure proper storage and disposal.
• Regular equipment inspections: Conduct routine inspections of all equipment to identify and correct any defects or maintenance needs.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Hard Hats: Must be worn at all times on the project to protect against head injuries from falling or flying objects. Ensure the hard hat fits properly and is in good condition.
• Safety Glasses: Required when there is a risk of eye injury from dust, debris, or chemical splashes. Choose appropriate eye protection based on the specific hazard.
• Safety Boots: Must be worn at all times to protect feet from punctures, impacts, and crushing injuries. Ensure boots have adequate ankle support and slip-resistant soles.
• Gloves: Wear appropriate gloves to protect hands from cuts, abrasions, chemical exposure, and extreme temperatures. Select gloves based on the specific task and hazards involved.

Emergency Procedures

1. In case of injury, immediately administer first aid and seek medical attention if necessary.
2. In the event of a fire, activate the fire alarm, evacuate the area, and call the fire department.
3. For spills of hazardous materials, contain the spill, follow the SDS guidelines, and notify the supervisor.

Questions and Answers

Now, let's open the floor for questions and ensure everyone understands these key safety points.

• Q: What should I do if I see a potential hazard on the job site?

A: Report it immediately to your supervisor or the health and safety representative.

• Q: Where can I find the SDS for a chemical I'm using?

A: The SDS should be readily available on site, often in a designated location or through a digital database. Ask your supervisor if you are unsure.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always prioritize safety and follow established procedures.
• Use the correct PPE for the task at hand and ensure it is in good condition.
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions immediately.
• Participate actively in safety training and toolbox talks.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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