Disclaimer: This resource has been prepared to help the workplace parties understand some of their obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and regulations. It is not legal advice. It is not intended to replace the OHSA or the regulations. For further information please see full disclaimer.
When machines are not properly guarded or locked out during maintenance, repair and other activities at industrial sector workplaces, workers can be exposed to a number of hazards. These hazards can result in serious injuries such as amputations of limbs or death.
Hazards can include:
In 2012, the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board received the following claims from workers for 'lost-time injuries' (LTIs areinjuries which resulted in workers having to take time off work):
In 2013, 17 per cent or 2,737 of all orders issued by Ministry of Labour inspectors under the Regulations for Industrial Establishments were for machine guarding and lockout violations.
Employers, supervisors and workers have responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and Regulations for Industrial Establishments.
Some of the responsibilities may include:
Providing appropriate information, instruction and supervision to protect workers such as training in lockout and guarding procedures (OHSA Section 25(2)(a)). Ensuring equipment is maintained in good condition by replacing and/or repairing damaged machine components (OHSA Section 25(1)(b)).
Call 1-877-202-0008 anytime to report workplace health and safety incidents or for general inquiries about health and safety at the workplace. Always call 911 in an emergency.
Disclaimer: This web resource has been prepared to assist the workplace parties in understanding some of their obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the regulations. It is not intended to replace the OHSA or the regulations and reference should always be made to the official version of the legislation.
It is the responsibility of the workplace parties to ensure compliance with the legislation. This web resource does not constitute legal advice. If you require assistance with respect to the interpretation of the legislation and its potential application in specific circumstances, please contact your legal counsel.
While this web resource will also be available to Ministry of Labour inspectors, they will apply and enforce the OHSA and its regulations based on the facts as they may find them in the workplace. This web resource does not affect their enforcement discretion in any way.
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