| Purpose |
To protect workers from injuries and risks associated with the installation, modification, and removal of hoarding tarps. |
| Definition |
Hoarding tarps are durable and weather-resistant covers, typically made from polyethylene or heavy-duty plastic, designed to create enclosed shelters for construction sites. These tarps protect equipment, tools, and workers from weather conditions such as rain, snow, and wind, and maintain site functionality during adverse weather. Hoarding tarps may also be used to contain heat within a workspace when paired with approved heaters. |
| Hazards
This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
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Chemical:
Physical:
- Fall from Heights
- Strain/Sprain
- Slips/Trips
- Falling objects
- Cuts/Lacerations
- Reduced visibility
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| Controls |
Engineering:
- Proper Ventilation
- Proper Positioning of Tarps
- Anchoring of Tarps
- Portable Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detector
Administrative:
- Hazard Assessment
- Reliable weather-monitoring tools (Environment Canada, AccuWeather, etc.)
- Manufacturers’ Specifications
- Train workers in safe lifting techniques and the proper use of fastening tools.
- Pre-plan tarp placement
Personal Protective Equipment:
- Gloves
- Safety Glasses
- Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS)
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| Work Site Supervisory Responsibility |
Do
- Facilitate and/or provide proper instruction to Workers on protection requirements and training for hoarding.
- Verify workers are trained and competent in tarp installation techniques.
- Ensure Worker has completed a hazard assessment prior starting the task.
- Monitor weather forecasts for high winds or emergency situations.
- Inspect Work Site at intervals for existing and potential safety hazards.
- Ensure Workers use the right equipment and PPE for the task.
- Ensure PPE, tools and equipment are in good condition prior to the Workers using them.
- Ensure heating devices it meets standards, as set by Qualico and Applicable Legislation, as applicable.
- Ensure all tarps are kept a minimum of 3 metres/10 feet away from all heaters.
Do not
- Allow Workers to use equipment they are not trained for.
- Allow tarp installation in high winds.
- Allow the use of fossil fuel burning heaters without proper ventilation and a carbon monoxide detector.
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| Worker Responsibility |
Do
- Complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting the job.
- Ensure you are properly trained to install hoarding tarps.
- Wear the appropriate PPE as per the hazard assessment process.
- Monitor weather forecasts for high winds or emergency situations.
- Install according to manufacturer’s specifications.
- Report defective tools, improper structures, unsafe conditions, loose materials and unsecured tarps immediately to supervisors.
- Ensure that, if heated, the hoarding tarp is rated for heat application.
- Check that hoarding tarp is attached to a stable and approved structure and properly secured to said structure with appropriate fasteners and tensioning systems.
- Ensure the hoarding has specific ventilation so that there is sufficient air flow in the hoarded area.
- Use signage and barricades.
Do not
- Use equipment or tools for which you are not trained or comfortable using.
- Attempt to install hoarding without proper tools and equipment or if heavy lifting that may cause injury is required.
- Use defective tools and equipment.
- Do not block access routes with tools or materials.
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