Category: Employee Wellness &
Health

Although often preventable, falls, slips, and trips are a prevalent workplace safety concern. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2020, this category of accidents accounted for roughly 18 percent of the total nonfatal work-related injuries resulting in days away from work. 

Falls, slips, and trips have negative repercussions in the workplace. They adversely impact employee health and well-being, reduce productivity, and impact the company’s bottom line. Therefore, a proactive approach toward preventing falls, slips, and trips is crucial.

Employers and employees should understand the main causes of these accidents and how to mitigate the associated hazards. Read on to discover the top workplace action tips for avoiding slips, trips, and falls.

By Jennifer Crump

Causes of Workplace Slips, Trips, and Falls

Various hazardous conditions and practices cause workplace slips, trips, and falls. These incidents can often be traced back to wet or uneven surfaces, cluttered workspaces, improper footwear, inadequate lighting, and lack of safety equipment. 

• Wet surfaces could result from spills or cleaning processes, increasing the risk of slipping.
• Uneven surfaces may be due to poorly maintained floors or unexpected obstacles, producing tripping hazards. 
• Poor housekeeping can lead to cluttered walkways, posing trip hazards
• Inappropriate footwear, especially those without sufficient grip, can contribute to slips, especially on smooth surfaces 
• Poor lighting may make it harder to see hazards, thus increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls
• Lack of necessary safety equipment, such as handrails or non-slip mats, can make certain areas more prone to accidents

The above issues highlight areas employers can focus on to prevent workplace slips, trips, and falls.

Top Tips to Prevent Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Workplace

1. Appropriate Footwear

Choosing the right footwear is one of the most practical steps to prevent slips, trips, and falls. Workers in high-risk industries such as construction, manufacturing, or food service should wear slip-resistant shoes with sturdy soles. Employers can facilitate this by providing footwear guidelines or supplying appropriate footwear.

2. Proper Clothing

Loose, ill-fitting clothing can be a tripping hazard, particularly around machinery or equipment. Employers can provide uniforms or dress code guidelines to ensure employees make appropriate safety-specific clothing choices. 

3. Safe Buildings

Regular checks for required building maintenance can go a long way toward avoiding slips, trips, and falls. Arrange repairs of any uneven surfaces, loose floorboards, or torn carpeting. 

4. Adequate Lighting

Proper lighting is paramount for preventing workplace slips, trips, and falls, as it significantly enhances visibility and allows employees to discern potential hazards.

Areas with poor lighting can obscure obstacles or spillages that can lead to incidents. This problem worsens in areas with stairs, entrances and exits, warehouses, or storage areas with greater potential for clutter and uneven surfaces. 

Workplaces should regularly evaluate their lighting conditions, considering factors like natural light and the type of work, to ensure a safe environment. By investing in high-quality, well-placed lighting, businesses can greatly reduce the incidence of slip, trip, and fall accidents, promoting employee safety and productivity.

5. Housekeeping

Good housekeeping practices are crucial for maintaining a safe workplace and significantly reducing the likelihood of accidents such as slips, trips, and falls. Such methods involve maintaining clean, uncluttered, and well-organized work environments. 

Regular cleaning schedules, immediate clean-up of spills, and proper disposal of waste materials can help eliminate slippery surfaces. Visible warning signs should be displayed when a surface is wet to warn workers to tread carefully. Keeping passageways, corridors, and work areas free from obstructions and ensuring cables, cords, and wires are properly managed and tucked away can prevent tripping hazards. 

By implementing and adhering to good housekeeping practices, workplaces can greatly minimize the risks associated with slips, trips, and falls, fostering a safer and more productive environment for everyone.

6. Invest in Safety Equipment

Safety equipment is indispensable in preventing workplace slips, trips, and falls. Handrails, for example, provide stability and support, especially on stairs or uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of falls significantly. They should be sturdy, easily accessible, and present on both sides of a staircase or walkway for optimal safety. 

Non-slip mats are essential in areas prone to wetness or spills, such as kitchens, restrooms, and entrances. These mats have a high-grip surface that provides traction underfoot, minimizing the likelihood of slipping. Safety tapes or anti-skid paints on floor surfaces can increase friction and facilitate safe pathways. 

7. Clear and Organized Workspaces

Keeping workspaces tidy is another key measure. Employers should provide adequate storage to keep items off the floor. Employees, in turn, should keep their workspace free from clutter, removing any items from walkways that could pose a tripping hazard.

8. Training and Awareness

Regular safety training can help employees understand the risks of slips, trips, and falls. The training could include identifying hazards, properly using safety equipment, and reporting unsafe conditions. Employers should foster a culture of safety where employees feel responsible for their and their colleagues’ safety.

9. Implementing Safety Regulations

Employers must ensure that all safety regulations and guidelines are strictly adhered to. Examples include providing and correctly using safety equipment such as harnesses for employees working at height, non-slip mats in slippery areas, and handrails in stairwells.

10. Regular Breaks

Long hours of continuous work may lead to fatigue and loss of concentration, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Regular breaks can help employees stay fresh, safe, and productive.

11. Open Communication Channels

Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting potential hazards or near misses. Facilitate such an environment through regular meetings, suggestion boxes, or an open-door policy. Immediate action should be taken to address the reported issues, thus preventing potential accidents.

12. Emergency Preparedness

Despite all precautions, accidents may still occur. A robust emergency response plan, including access to first aid and trained personnel, can significantly minimize the impact of any unfortunate incident.

13. Constant Review and Improvement

Workplace safety is not a one-time task but an ongoing process. Employers should continually review and improve their safety policies and procedures based on employee feedback, incident reports, and changes in industry standards or regulations.

Preventing Falls, Slips, and Trips in the Workplace | In Conclusion

Maintaining a safe workplace requires a collective effort from employers and employees. A proactive approach to preventing slips, trips, and falls by following the above measures can go a long way toward creating a safer work environment. 
For related reading, find out how to prevent slips, trips, and falls on snowy and icy job sites.

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TAKEAWAY: Despite advances in safety awareness, forestry and agriculture remain two of the most dangerous occupations in North America. Both countries have established safety training requirements for forestry and agriculture workers to mitigate this risk and ensure a safe work environment. In this blog, we will delve into these requirements in detail.

By Jennifer Crump

Forestry and Agriculture are essential sectors in both the United States and Canada, providing food, fibre, and other resources to support the economy and society. However, these industries also involve inherent risks to workers’ safety and health, such as exposure to hazardous chemicals, heavy machinery operation, and physical strain from manual labour. 

What are the Safety Risks in Forestry and Agriculture?

Forestry workers in the U.S. and Canada typically work in challenging environments, including remote locations, steep slopes, and rugged terrain. As such, they are exposed to numerous hazards, such as falling trees, unpredictable weather conditions, and dangerous wildlife. Risks in forestry include hooking and unhooking loads alongside noise, vibration and awkward working postures. The operation of machinery, including heavy machinery, also puts them at risk of serious injury. 

Agriculture workers in the U.S. and Canada face similar hazards, including exposure to pesticides and other hazardous materials, heavy machinery operation, and confined space entry. They are also at increased risk of hearing loss, electrocution, and respiratory disease. 

Safety training requirements for Forestry and Agriculture in the United States

In the United States, forestry and agriculture are subject to regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). OSHA requires that employers provide a safe and healthy workplace for their employees, including ensuring that workers receive appropriate training on the hazards they may encounter on the job.

Some of the specific training requirements for forestry and agriculture in the U.S. include:

Hazard Communication 

Employers must train their employees on the hazardous chemicals they may encounter on the job, including pesticides, fertilizers, and fuels. 

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employers must train employees on the proper use of PPE, including hard hats, eye and ear protection, and gloves. They must also provide training on the maintenance of this equipment.

Machine Safety 

Workers who operate machinery such as tractors, chainsaws, and harvesters must receive training on how to use these machines safely. This should include both classroom and hands-on training to ensure that operators understand how to operate the equipment safely and are familiar with its features and functions. There are additional requirements for training in responding to hazards such as overhead powerlines, steep terrain or unstable ground.

Emergency procedures training

Employers must provide operator training in emergency procedures, such as how to shut down equipment in an emergency or how to respond to a fire or other emergency situation.

Maintenance and inspection training

Operators should be trained in the proper maintenance and inspection of equipment, including how to conduct pre-operational inspections, how to recognize signs of wear or damage, and how to perform routine maintenance tasks.

Ongoing training

The legislation also demands that workers receive ongoing training to stay up-to-date on safety procedures, equipment updates, and best practices.

Electrical Safety

Workers who perform maintenance on equipment, work near power lines, or handle electrical equipment must receive training on electrical safety.

First Aid and CPR Training

Forestry and agricultural workers must receive first aid and CPR training to respond to emergencies and provide immediate medical care to injured workers.

Safety training requirements for Forestry and Agriculture in Canada

In Canada, forestry and agriculture are subject to regulations by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS). Some of the specific training requirements for forestry and agriculture in Canada include:

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)

Employers must train their employees on the hazardous materials they may encounter on the job. This training should occur when an employee is first hired if the materials they are working with change at least once every three years.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Employers must train employees on the proper use of PPE, including hard hats, eye and ear protection, and gloves. They must also receive training on this equipment’s appropriate care and maintenance.

Machine Safety

Workers who operate machinery such as tractors, chainsaws, and harvesters must receive training on how to use these machines safely. This can include classroom and hands-on training to ensure operators understand how to operate the equipment safely. There are additional requirements for machine safety training in responding to hazards such as overhead powerlines, steep terrain or unstable ground.

Emergency procedures training

Employers must deliver operators training in emergency procedures, such as how to shut down equipment in an emergency or how to respond to a fire or other emergency situation.

Maintenance and inspection training

Operators should be trained in the proper maintenance and inspection of equipment, including how to conduct pre-operational inspections, how to recognize signs of wear or damage, and how to perform routine maintenance tasks.

Ongoing training

Legislation requires employers to deliver ongoing training to workers to keep them up-to-date on safety procedures, equipment updates, and best practices.

Electrical Safety

Workers who perform maintenance on equipment, work near power lines, or handle electrical equipment must receive training on electrical safety.

First Aid and CPR Training

Like the U.S., forestry workers in Canada must receive first aid and CPR training to respond to emergencies and provide immediate medical care to injured workers.

Industry Specific Training

Several organizations also offer and may require employer and worker training in specific areas. For example, the U.S. Forestry Service offers wildfire training, sawyer training, and aerial lift training. In Canada, the Forest Safety Society provides training courses for forestry workers on topics such as chainsaw safety, tree felling, and hazard identification and control.

For agriculture workers in the U.S., additional training may be required on things like grain bin entry and confined spaces depending on the work location. Canadian authorities often have similar requirements, again depending on work location. 

It’s important to note that these are not exhaustive lists, and there may be additional training requirements depending on the specific job duties and hazards involved. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees receive the appropriate training to perform their job duties safely.

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TAKEAWAY: In this blog post, we’ll provide an overview of the safety training requirements in the transportation industry and highlight some essential resources to help you meet those requirements.

By Jennifer Crump

As a Human Resources Manager in the Transportation industry, you know that safety is of the utmost importance. Human factors account for a disproportionate number of accidents in the transportation industry. Safety training is crucial to compliance, but it is also essential to preventing these accidents and injuries.

In order to ensure a safe working environment on your work sites, it’s essential to be familiar with the safety training requirements in your state or province. In the United States and Canada, there are several safety training requirements that transportation companies must follow to comply with regulations and standards.

United States

In the U.S., the Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for setting minimum standards for safety training in the transportation industry. However, many of its operating administrations, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), also have training requirements specific to their industries.

Operator Training

Companies governed by DOT must provide their operators with training specific to the administration they are employed with. For example, those governed by the FMCSA must deliver training that teaches operators about the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles (CMV), including handling emergencies, performing pre-trip inspections, and complying with federal regulations.

Hazardous Materials Training

Anyone involved in transporting hazardous materials must receive specialized training in handling and transporting these materials safely. This training must comply with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) established by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

Hours of Service Training

This training is specific to certain industries. In all cases, drivers must receive training on the hours-of-service regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive in a day or week. This training helps ensure that drivers are well-rested and alert while operating everything from aircraft to trains.

Drug and Alcohol Awareness Training

All employees and contractors of companies governed under DOT must receive training on the dangers of drug and alcohol use while driving, as well as the consequences of violating federal drug and alcohol testing regulations.

Compliance Training

Carriers must train their drivers on federal regulations and safety standards, including the FMCSA regulations, the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) requirements, and the Safety Measurement System (SMS). Similar provisions are in place for workers governed by other administrations.

Defensive Driving

Defensive driving training is another specific requirement of DOT that is primarily targeted toward commercial drivers governed by the FMCSA.

In all cases, the training must be provided by a qualified trainer with knowledge and experience in the specific training area. The trainer must also communicate the training effectively to the employees.

Canada

Transport Canada regulates the transportation industry in Canada and establishes safety standards and regulations for all modes of transportation. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) also provides guidance on safety training requirements for workers in the transportation industry. These requirements include:

Operator Training

All drivers of commercial vehicles and operators in other modes of transportation must receive training on the safe operation of their vehicles, including how to perform pre-trip inspections, handle emergencies, and comply with federal regulations.

Hours of Service Training

Drivers and operators must receive training on the hours of service regulations, which limit the number of hours they can drive in a day or week.

Defensive Driving Training

Commercial drivers must receive training on defensive driving techniques, which can help prevent accidents and injuries on the road.

Dangerous Goods Training

Drivers, operators and others who work in the transportation industry and transport dangerous goods must receive specialized training in handling and transporting these materials safely. This training must comply with the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) regulations established by Transport Canada.

Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Training

Drivers, operators and others who work in the transportation industry in Canada must receive training on the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS). This is a hazard communication system used in Canada to provide information on hazardous materials and how to handle them safely.

It’s important to note that Canadian transportation companies that operate in the U.S. are responsible for meeting DOT regulations for safety training as well as Canadian regulations. Specific provinces may have additional training requirements, so it is a good idea to check with the provinces you operate in before designing your safety training.

In both the United States and Canada, safety training is a critical requirement for workers in the transportation industry. These training requirements help ensure drivers are aware of federal regulations, safety standards, and best practices for the safe operation of their vehicles. By complying with these requirements, transportation companies can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries and create a safer workplace for their employees and the public.

Resources

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) For additional safety training regulations, check out the individual operating administration pages under the About tab.

The Canadian Transportation Agency hosts national regulations for safety training. There are also specific pages for individual industries listed on the main page.

SureHire offers online industry-specific training for both U.S. and Canadian-based transportation companies. All are conducted by certified and experienced trainers.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration site is another good resource for the latest U.S. news and recommendations for safety training in transportation.

For similar news within Canada, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety is another excellent resource.

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TAKEAWAY: Get an overview of safety training requirements in Canada and the United States and highlight some essential resources to help you meet those requirements.

By Jennifer Crump

The construction industry is one of the most hazardous industries in Canada and the United States, with a high number of accidents and fatalities occurring each year. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, the construction industry is one of the most dangerous, experiencing more worker deaths each year than any other industry. To prevent these accidents, both countries have established safety training requirements for workers in the construction industry.

Safety Training Requirements in Canada

In Canada, the federal government and each province have regulations for construction safety training. At a minimum, Canadian employers must provide training that includes an overview and the employee’s three basic rights in federal jurisdiction, details about the health and safety committee, workplace inspections, hazard prevention and violence prevention programs, and accident investigation. However, all Canadian jurisdictions also require employers to provide workers with training in the following areas:

1. Fall Protection

Workers must be trained in fall protection systems and equipment, including personal protective equipment (PPE), guardrails, and safety nets. This should also include training about the fall-protection plan and emergency procedures if there is a risk of drowning.

2. Hazard Communication

Workers must be trained in identifying and communicating hazards in the workplace, including chemical, physical, and biological hazards. Specific training is usually required for many risks, including asbestos, compressed air, carbon monoxide and chainsaws.

3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Workers must be trained on the proper selection of PPE, including hands-on instruction in the fit, use and maintenance of assigned PPE. They must also be trained in the limitations of PPE, what to do when devices fail, and when they need to be replaced or discarded.

4. Confined Spaces

Workers must be trained on the hazards of working in confined spaces and the safe entry and exit procedures. This includes training on PPEs and the specific emergency procedures for the worksite.

Educate Your Workforce!

The Confined Space Pre-Entry training course is designed in compliance with the Canada Labour Code (the Code) and Part XI (Confined Spaces) of the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (COHSR), including practices and procedures to protect workers from the hazards associated with working in confined spaces.

Click here to Register!

5. Electrical Safety

Workers must be trained on electrical safety procedures, including lockout and tag out procedures and safe work practices around electrical equipment. The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) CSA Z462 Workplace Electrical Safety Standard, 2021, also provides specific recommendations concerning electrical training.

6. Respiratory Protection

Workers must be trained on properly using and maintaining respiratory protection equipment. Mask fit testing is required as part of this training every two years and is recommended annually.

Safety Training Requirements in the United States

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets safety training requirements for workers in the construction industry. Many states also have additional regulations that enhance the OSHA regulations. OSHA requires that employers provide workers with training in the following areas:

1. Fall Protection

Workers must be trained in fall protection systems and equipment, including PPE, guardrails, safety nets, and other fall protection systems. Training must be conducted by a trained professional and include training on recognizing and mitigating common fall hazards.

2. Hazard Communication

Workers must be trained in identifying and communicating hazards in the workplace, including chemical, physical, and biological hazards. Employers are also expected to disclose hazards that are present in the workplace to their employees, and there are specific training requirements for substances such as asbestos.

3. Personal Protective Equipment

Workers must be trained on the proper selection, use, and maintenance of PPE. They must also be trained in the limitations of PPE, what to do when devices fail, and when they need to be replaced or discarded.

4. Confined Spaces

Workers must be trained on the hazards of working in confined spaces and the safe entry and exit procedures. This includes training on PPE and emergency procedures and requirements for additional training if the employee indicates a lack of compliance.

Educate Your Workforce!

The Confined Space Awareness training course is designed in compliance with the OSHA Confined Space Awareness Training requirements as outlined in the Title 29 CFR 1910.146, including practices and procedures to protect workers from the hazards associated with working in confined spaces.

Click here to Register!

5. Electrical Safety

Workers must be trained on electrical safety procedures, including lockout/tagout procedures and safe work practices around electrical equipment. The level of training is determined by the risk profile of the worker and can be on-the-job or classroom-based.

6. Respiratory Protection

Workers must be trained on properly using and maintaining respiratory protection equipment, including mask fit and emergency procedures.

7. Scaffolding

Workers who use scaffolding must be trained in the hazards associated with scaffolding and the proper procedures for setting up and using scaffolding. A trained professional focusing must conduct training on recognizing and controlling risks.

In Canada and the United States, safety training requirements for workers in the construction industry are designed to prevent accidents and fatalities. These requirements cover various topics, including fall protection, hazard communication, personal protective equipment, confined spaces, electrical safety, respiratory protection, and scaffolding. Employers can create a safe and healthy workplace and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries by providing workers with the necessary training.

Additional Resources on Safety Training in North America

The Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations list the legal requirements for companies regarding safety training.

The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety is a government-run site that provides a wealth of information on safety training.

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration site, run by the U.S. Department of Labor has a wealth of information about regulations and safety training.

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TAKEAWAY: The winter brings snow and ice to many parts of the US and Canada. Although it presents a picturesque landscape, snow and ice can prove treacherous for those working on outdoor job sites. Fortunately, armed with knowledge, you can take the necessary precautions to work safely on snowy or icy terrain and minimize the risk of devastating injuries.

By Elly McGuinness

According to 2020 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 18 percent of nonfatal work injuries resulting in days away from work were related to slips, trips, and falls. This category was one of the leading causes of work-related injuries resulting in a visit to the emergency department.

Canadian data is similar. Around 18 percent of time-loss injuries reported to worker’s compensation boards annually are due to falls. Interestingly, the majority (67 percent) of falls result from slips and trips as opposed to falls from heights.

Various factors can increase the risks of slips, trips, and falls. From inappropriate footwear to uneven ground or slippery surfaces, employers and employees must first be aware of the risks and then take steps to minimize them.

Snowy and icy terrain can prove very slippery, increasing the chance of falling over and sustaining an injury. Read on to discover the top ways to minimize the risk of slips, trips, and falls on snowy and icy job sites and avoid related injuries.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.

Contact Us to Get Started!

The dangers of snowy and icy job sites

Snow and ice can produce slippery surfaces, increasing the risk of slips and falls for employees working outdoors. Early morning wintery conditions are often the worst. Melting snow freezes overnight as temperatures drop, forming a thin layer of early morning ice that can be hard to see. 

Falling on icy ground can cause serious injuries that often have a negative and long-term effect on workers and businesses. Injuries can vary in nature and severity, ranging from muscle strains and sprains to broken bones and concussions.

Injured employees may require time off work, medical care, and a rehabilitation program. Injuries can adversely affect not only a person’s physical health but also their mental well-being. 

Work-related injuries can also prove costly for businesses, from medical expenses to reduced worker productivity and, ultimately, a diminished bottom line. Therefore, employers and employees should proactively find ways to stay safe on snowy and icy job sites.

How to avoid slips, trips, and falls on snowy and icy job sites

Employees can take the following actions to minimize the risk of slipping and falling when working on snowy and icy job sites.

1. Wear appropriate footwear

Icy surfaces present reduced frictional force between your foot and the ground, increasing the chances of slipping. Wearing appropriate footwear can help improve traction and keep you safe while walking. Always wear flat-footed shoes or boots for walking on snow and ice.

Winter boots can help keep feet warm and dry, and those with good grip will help reduce the risk of slipping on ice. Wear boots designed for winter weather, such as snow boots or walking boots with metal spikes. Boots also offer ankle support, which may reduce the risk of sprained ankles.

If your footwear isn’t optimal for walking on snow and ice, invest in a pair of traction cleats, also called crampons. They fit easily over various types of footwear for a much smaller cost than specialized boots.

2. Adjust your walking style and speed

Your usual walking style may serve you poorly when walking on icy surfaces. Instead, take smaller steps and adopt more of a shuffle to help you keep stable on your feet. A slight forward bend can also help you maintain your center of balance.

Something as simple as slowing down can go a long way toward keeping you safe. So allow plenty of time to get where you need to go, take your time, and walk slowly. Although it may be tempting to keep your hands cozy inside your pockets, keeping them free is vital to help protect you if you fall.

3. Wear appropriate protective clothing

Your clothing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when looking to protect yourself from slips and trips. However, your clothing choices can help you considerably if you do fall. 

Wear a thick winter jacket to help soften your landing. Grippy gloves increase traction with handrails and help you avoid slipping further if you fall.

4. Use support if it’s available

Handrails are there for a reason, so use them if available. They are beneficial on stairs where the injury risk is likely higher if you fall.

5. Pay attention to your surroundings

Paying attention to your surroundings is a simple concept that can ensure you avoid slips and trips caused by distractions. Look ahead when you walk and take note of any changing terrain. Sometimes you’ll need to change your course to avoid slippery or uneven areas.

Never read or look at your phone while walking on snow or ice. Keep your sole focus on walking for the best chance of staying safe and injury-free.

6. Take extra care with entries and exits

Take extra care when the surface conditions change to avoid getting caught off guard. Climb in and out of vehicles slowly and carefully. Do the same when walking from inside to outside a building to allow your brain and body to adjust to the new environment.

When entering a building, take care to wipe your feet on a mat, stamp out any snow and ice from your footwear, or change to indoor footwear. It’s not only outdoor job sites that require you to take on care during winter. Bringing snow and ice indoors becomes slippery when it melts, making indoor surfaces more hazardous.

SureHire offers a wide range of occupational testing programs and additional resources to support employers and their workers, including audiometric testing, fitness-to-work testing and lung health testing.

Contact Us to Get Started!

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TAKEAWAY: In addition to recognizing, identifying, and assessing your confined spaces and the hazards associated with them, your confined space program must include measures to control those hazards. This means you must have a plan that provides training for your workers. 

By Jennifer Crump

Every year in the U.S., over 2.1 million workers enter confined spaces. It can be dangerous business. According to estimates, over 100 deaths occur in confined spaces in Canada annually. Implementing proper safety precautions could have prevented 85% of all confined space incidents, including these tragic deaths, says the Canadian Standards Association.

By law, these safety precautions must include a confined space program for your workplace. In addition to recognizing, identifying, and assessing your confined spaces and the hazards associated with them, this program must include measures to control those hazards. This means you must have a plan that provides training for your workers. 

Unfortunately, in a recent U.S. study of workplace confined space fatalities, 0% used written procedures, 0% had a rescue plan, and just 15% had confined space training. Sadly, 60% of those fatalities were would-be rescuers. Most of these workers were performing routine maintenance. 

NOW AVAILABLE | Confined Space Awareness/ Pre-Entry Training

A good health and safety program starts with educating your workforce. Our Confined Space training courses are designed in compliance with the Canada Labour Code, Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (COHSR), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Give your workers the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely while working in a confined space. Get full course details and register online today!

What is a Confined Space? 

Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (COHSR) define confined space as a space that, 

1. is enclosed or partially enclosed;
2. is not designed or intended for continuous human occupancy; and
3. has a limited or restricted means of entry or exit or an internal configuration that could complicate the provision of first aid, evacuation, rescue or other emergency response

Additionally, some areas are designated as hazardous confined spaces. These are spaces that pose the risk of injury or illness to workers due to

1. design, construction, location, or atmosphere;
2. the materials or substances in it; or
3. any other conditions relating to it. 

Confined spaces can be below or above ground; despite the name, they are not necessarily small. 

Despite some differences in terminology, provincial legislation largely mirrors current federal legislation concerning confined spaces. However, there are subtle differences in both terminology and expectations for employers. Specific industries also have targeted requirements regarding how they handle confined spaces. Check the occupational health and safety guidelines for each province you operate in. 

Hazards in Confined Spaces 

The hazards in confined spaces can lead to asphyxiation, drowning, slips and falls, crushing, or unconsciousness. Fires and explosions are also possible in some confined spaces. These hazards can be atmospheric or physical. Atmospheric hazards include toxic vapours, combustible gases, solvents or dust, and oxygen deficiency, and physical hazards include flooding, moving machinery, falling objects, electrocution, and extreme temperatures. 

Common Industries Requiring Confined Space Assessments

Confined spaces can be found in almost any industry, but they are a common hazard in mining, construction, agriculture, and transportation. 

Examples of confined spaces include:

• Silos
• Vats
• Hoppers
• Utility vaults
• Tanks
• Water supply towers
• Sewers
• Pipes
• Access shafts
• Truck or rail tank cars
• Aircraft wings
• Boilers
• Utility holes
• Pump stations
• Digesters
• Manure pits
• Storage bins

Even though they may be open to the air, ditches, wells, and trenches may also be considered confined spaces. Barges, shipping containers, and fish holds are other locations that may present a confined space hazard. 

Understanding the Terminology

While there is tremendous overlap and general consistency in provincial and federal government legislation around confined spaces, there are some critical differences. One is the terminology used to define confined spaces. 

You may, for example, see additional terms such as restricted and hazardous spaces. While Ontario defines confined spaces as potentially hazardous to workers, federal legislation and the province of Alberta provide a separate designation for confined spaces which are difficult to enter or exit and dangerous areas which are confined spaces with some potential hazard to the worker present. 

Restricted spaces are generally challenging to enter and exit from and are not intended for continuous occupancy. They include attic spaces, below-ground vaults, trenches, and crawl spaces. These are considered confined spaces if there Is also a hazard present. Restricted and confined spaces are sometimes covered separately under existing provincial and federal legislation. 

Confined Spaces and Employer Obligations

Employers have numerous obligations under provincial and federal OHS legislation, including the inspection and assessment of confined spaces, provision of written policies and procedures, and notification of employers. 

There are also very detailed and specific requirements for education and training for confined space workers under OHS provincial and federal legislation. 

Employers are obligated to provide education and training to any employee likely to enter a confined space as well as anyone involved in a rescue in a confined space. There are slight variations in the federal laws and those for each province and specific industries, but in most cases, employers must provide training that includes: proper use of personal protective equipment, written rescue procedures, maintaining contact between a person in the confined space and an attendant and how the written rescue procedure is initiated in the event of an emergency in the confined space, the limitations on the type of work that can be performed in the confined space, and the means of identifying a hazard while in a confined space.

Confined Space Training at SureHire

In addition to a suite of other safety-related courses, SureHire is now offering unique confined space training courses for Canadian and American workers. 

Confined Space Awareness Training | USA

Duration:~75 minutes

This course is designed to provide workers in the USA with the specific knowledge and skills they need to work safely in confined spaces in compliance with OSHA. Topics include characteristics of a confined space (how to identify one, real-life examples of confined spaces, and key terms used in the workplace). Type of confined spaces and differences between non-permit and permit-required confined spaces. Hazard types and examples including atmospheric, engulfing, and more. OSHA compliant training components, including awareness, entry, and rescue training and the purpose and limits to each.
And More!

Learn more & register online!

Confined Space Pre-Entry Training | CAD

Duration:~60 minutes

This course is designed to provide workers in Canada with the specific knowledge and skills they need to work safely in confined spaces in compliance with Canadian Legislation. Topics include Federal as well as Provincial/ Territorial definitions of confined space and hazardous confined space. how to identify a confined space, including questions to ask, and hazard identification. Hierarchy of controls and hazard elimination
And More!

Learn more & register online!