Ontario summer construction blitz targets fall hazards

Ontario will focus on hazards that can result in falls during a safety blitz at construction sites this summer.
“Falls are the number one cause of critical injuries and fatalities of workers at construction sites in Ontario," said George Gritziotis, chief prevention officer. "We’re working to improve the health and safety of construction workers."

In July and August, Ministry of Labour inspectors will visit construction sites to check they are in compliance with legislation and regulations.

To keep workers safe and prevent falls, the inspectors will ensure that:

• employers have policies, programs and safe work practices in place to protect workers from fall hazards
• workers using ladders, mobile stands and platforms are properly trained and supervised
• workers use appropriate fall protection systems, personal protective equipment and other ?safety devices
• openings in floors and work surfaces and walls are protected by guardrails or protective coverings.