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New residential construction safety guidelines in British Columbia

On Behalf of | Aug 17, 2020 | Workplace Injuries |

WorkSafeBC recently announced updates to safety protocols for residential construction work. It released a new publication – entitled Safe Work Practices for Residential Construction – as well as a Notice of Project (NOP) postcard. The aim of these measures is to improve health and safety standards and limit preventable workplace accidents in British Columbia.

Safe Work Practices for Residential Construction

According to WorkSafeBC, wood-framed constructions pose significant hazards. Over 1,200 work-related injuries and deaths occurred on such projects over the past five years.

Therefore, the new publication contains many safety guidelines specific to wood-framed construction. These include safety protocols related to:

  • Planning
  • Site preparation
  • Construction
  • Tool and equipment safety
  • Working at high elevation

The updated safety materials will be available for construction company owners, contractors and residential homeowners. The new standards will apply to all renovation and construction projects in this niche market.

Notice of Project

Before construction may begin on some residential projects, the construction project manager will need to prepare a NOP. Included in this notice will be specific project information along with the identities of the people in charge of the workers’ health and safety. The contact information of all the key people must be provided, as well as general information and the scope of the work on that project.

While these safety enhancements are valuable, it’s important to understand that these new regulations will not eliminate the inherently dangerous nature of construction work. Even if they limit injuries and fatalities, accidents will continue to occur.

A victim of a workplace injury in British Columbia may be unsure about his or her rights to claim compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. A lawyer with experience in dealing with workers’ compensation claims on behalf of injured workers can answer questions and explain the necessary administrative and legal procedures. The surviving family members of deceased workplace injury victims can also seek the support and guidance of a lawyer to help them navigate the claims for workers’ compensation benefits.

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