By law, an employer is required to notify the Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) Branch of a serious incident by the fastest means of communication available. Serious Incident Alerts include descriptions of the actual serious incidents reported to WSH Branch and are provided to raise awareness and initiate preventative actions as appropriate.
The following FOUR incidents occurred on Manitoba construction projects in September 2023:
Workers were on a scaffolding system when a pickup truck drove into the scaffolding. Employers are required to identify, communicate and control potential hazards which include vehicles used on-site. Site supervisors should ensure any scaffolding is clearly marked for operators to see. Use a spotter if any vehicle is in proximity (3 feet) of a scaffold to load or unload material.
A worker was using an angle grinder with a zip disk when the grinder backed up and hit the worker's arm. The employer had a duty to ensure that all workers were trained and used all tools in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications. Have a look at the following...
CSAM Toolbox Talk: Electric Tools – Basic Safety
CSAM Toolbox Talk: Electric Tools – Circular Saws
CSAM Toolbox Talk: Electric Tools – Sabre Saws
A worker was snapping lines off an extension and fell. Hazard assessments and inspections must be done at all job sites to determine the hazards before the worker begins work.
A worker was walking around a construction site when their leg fell into a gas line daylighting hole. The hole was not marked or covered. All excavations must be clearly marked and or guarded. Have a look at our virtual toolbox talk on excavations.
If you have concerns about the potential for a similar incident occurring on YOUR jobsite, speak to a CSAM safety advisor. Call 204-775-3171 in Winnipeg or 204-728-3456 in Brandon.
To view previous serious incident reports, click here.
