Safety Regulations and Restrictions for Ladder Jacks in Manitoba, Canada

This document outlines the safety regulations and restrictions for using ladder jacks as scaffolding on construction sites in Manitoba, Canada. It aims to prevent falls and ensure worker safety by providing a comprehensive overview of applicable guidelines and standards.

General Safety Requirements

Occupational Exposure Limits

Manitoba has established occupational exposure limits (OELs) for various substances that may be encountered on construction sites. These limits are designed to protect workers from the harmful effects of exposure to airborne contaminants. Some examples of OELs in Manitoba include:

Calcium sulfate: OEL TWA of 10 mg/m3 (inhalable particulate matter)
Kaolin: OEL TWA of 2 mg/m3 (particulate matter containing no Asbestos and <1% Crystalline silica, respirable particulate matter)
Aluminum: OEL TWA of 1 mg/m3 (respirable particulate matter)
Magnesium oxide: OEL TWA of 10 mg/m3 (inhalable particulate matter)
Silica, crystalline: OEL TWA of 0.025 mg/m3 (respirable particulate matter)

These limits are based on time-weighted averages (TWA), which represent the average concentration of a substance over an eight-hour workday. It is important to consult the most current regulations for a complete list of OELs and their specific requirements.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for worker safety when using ladder jacks. Recommended PPE includes:

Gloves
Protective clothing
Protective goggles
Respiratory protection (if ventilation is insufficient)
Face shield

Engineering Controls

Adequate ventilation is essential, especially in confined areas, to minimize exposure to hazardous substances. Emergency eyewash fountains and safety showers should be readily available in the immediate vicinity of any potential exposure.

Safe Handling Practices

Wash hands and other exposed areas thoroughly with mild soap and water before eating, drinking, smoking, or leaving work.
Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and clothing.
Obtain special instructions before use and do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood.
Do not breathe dust.
Handle empty containers with care, as they may still present a hazard.

Storage Requirements

Keep containers closed when not in use.
Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and incompatible materials.
Store locked up or in a secure area.
Store in the original container or a corrosion-resistant and/or lined container.

Incompatible Materials

Avoid contact with strong acids, strong bases, and strong oxidizers. Also, be aware that cement can dissolve in hydrofluoric acid, producing corrosive silicon tetrafluoride gas. Cement reacts with water to form silicates and calcium hydroxide. Silicates react with powerful oxidizers such as fluorine, boron trifluoride, chlorine trifluoride, manganese trifluoride, and oxygen difluoride.