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Focus On Fall Hazards At Construction Sites

 
 

January 6, 2010 10:30 AM

McGuinty Government Heightening Awareness Around Workplace Hazards

Ontario Ministry of Labour inspectors will check for hazards involving suspended platforms at construction sites during an enforcement blitz starting in mid-January and is reminding industry parties to protect workers from hazards that cause workers to fall.

The ministry has issued a hazard alert on the fundamental safety procedures for suspended platforms.  Inspectors will also begin a heightened enforcement campaign targeting fall hazards in the construction sector.  As part of regular inspections, they will look for compliance with fall protection requirements, including appropriate fall-related equipment and adequate worker training.

Ministry inspectors will have zero tolerance for non-compliance. The review will be completed within 90 days.

This initiative is part of the province's Safe At Work Ontario strategy. The strategy takes a broad approach to improve workplace health and safety practices through education, training, and enforcement of provincial legislation and regulations.


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QUICK FACTS

 
  • Since 2005 Ontario has doubled the number of full-time occupational health and safety inspectors, bringing the total to 430.
  • A 2008 falls blitz visiting 704 construction projects resulted in 3,262 orders, 336 stop-work orders and 1,455 forthwith orders.

CONTACTS

  • Emily Bullock
    Minister's Office
    416-326-7713
  • Tom Zach
    Ministry of Labour
    416-326-7404



Ministry of Labour
ontario.ca/labour


 

"We want to ensure that Ontarians are safe at their workplace and these actions we're taking serve as a reminder that safety practices must be followed when working above the ground. I have asked for a report back in 90 days, at which time decisions will be made on what further steps will be taken."

 – Peter Fonseca
Minister of Labour