Training requirements on construction projects

As a contractor, keeping yourself and your employees safe is always a top priority. Here is a brief summary of some recent changes to help keep you up-to-date on training requirements for those who work at heights.

For complete details, visit the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s site.

New Ontario government regulations mandate that all construction workers complete a working at heights fall prevention training program. This mandatory training requirement became effective on April 1, 2015 and applies to workers who are employed on sites that are required to use safety methods like safety nets, safety belts and fall arrest systems. This training must be approved and administered by the company’s chief protection officer (CPO.)

The working at heights training requirement only applies to workers who are employed in workplaces covered under the Ontario government’s Construction Projects Regulation. For a complete list, visit the Ministry of Labour’s website.

The training is valid for three years. After that time, a worker must take a half-day refresher training course.

The height training is portable. This means if a worker changes employment, he or she doesn’t have to re-take the training class until the three-year expiration date. A new or potential employer can verify that a person has completed the training by asking to see the worker’s CPO-issued proof of completion card or by calling the Ontario Ministry of Labour (with the person’s consent) at 1-877-202-0008.

Employers are required by law to keep adequate, detailed records about employees and their height training status. Such records should include the employee’s name, the approved training provider’s name, the date the training was completed and the name of the CPO-approved training program. These records need to be available to a Ministry of Labour inspection on request.

In addition to working safely, protecting your business with the right contractors insurance is a wise investment. If you have any questions about business insurance in general, or want to better understand coverage needs and pricing for your own business, contact one of our contractors insurance brokers at 1-800-731-2228 or commercialsales@nullmitchinsurance.com. We’re on your side, and can help protect your business at rates that protect your bottom line.