Roof Fall Protection Regulations In Canada
A guide to Rooftop Safety in Canada
Ensure safe access and compliance with Canadian fall protection and roof safety requirements. Together we can mitigate fall risks and prioritize worker safety.
While working on rooftops, safety is a priority! With advancements in infrastructure and the need for businesses to evolve their physical space, commercial roofs across the country are becoming crowded. This is gradually impacting local standards and height safety regulations that are calling for various solutions, such as roof guardrails and barriers, lifeline access ladders and more. With numerous federal and provincial safety governing bodies, height safety compliance is a challenge.
Provinces
Canada
Federal height safety and fall protection regulations in Canada include the "Canada Occupational Safety and Health Regulations" and the "National Building Code of Canada". Note that when reviewing each province you will find variations of the safety code that are applicable to that specific province.
Most jurisdictions require the use of specific fall protection measures before, or in addition to, personal protective equipment (PPE). These measures generally include the use of some of the following:
- fixed barriers (e.g., handrails, guardrails)
- surface opening protection (e.g., covers, guardrails, etc.)
- warning barriers/control zones fall or travel restraint systems (i.e., a system to prevent a worker from falling from a work position, or from travelling to an unguarded edge from which the worker could fall)
- fall containment system (e.g., safety nets)
- fall arrest systems (i.e., a system that will stop a worker's fall before the worker hits the surface below)
There may also be specific legal requirements around the use of equipment like ladders and scaffolding.
Occupational health and safety laws generally require action when a worker has the potential to fall about 3 metres (10 feet). In most cases, fall protection is required when:
- other means of fall protection are not available or possible, such as guardrails
- working at a height of 3 metres or more (permanent and/or temporary work areas)
- working at a height of less than 3 metres when the surface below could cause a greater injury than just the fall (e.g., machinery; risk of drowning in water or other liquid; open tanks, vats, or pits containing hazardous materials; materials that can shift)
- a worker may fall through an opening in the work surface
- it is determined that fall protection is necessary
Newfoundland
and Labrador
References from the Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Newfoundland and Labrador Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012, N.L.R. 5/12
Guardrails Section 28
(1) Guardrails shall be installed where an open-sided floor, working platform, runway, walkway or balcony is over 1.22 metres above the existing floor or ground level.
(2) Detour guardrails shall be installed where a stairway ends in direct proximity to dangerous traffic or other hazards.
(3) An employer shall ensure that a guardrail is secured so that it cannot move in any direction if it is struck or if a point on it comes in contact with a worker, materials or equipment.
(4) Guardrails shall be installed on walkways over open tanks containing harmful substances or over open tanks 1.22 metres or more in depth.
(5) Walkways and platforms installed over machinery and work areas shall be equipped with toe boards at least 10 centimetres high along all sides of the walkway or platform.
(6) A guard rail shall have a top rail located at least .9 metres but not more than 1.1 metres above the working surface and an intermediate rail located midway between the top rail and the working surface.
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012 under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, (O.C. 2012-005) Newfoundland and Labrador Regulation 5/12
https://www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/Regulations/rc120005.htm
Roof Work Section 29
(1) Where work is being done at a distance greater than 2 metres from the edge of a roof that has a slope of less than 3/12, the employer shall implement control zones to alert workers upon entering within 2 metres of the edge without an appropriate means of fall protection.
(2) Where work is being done from the edge of a roof or within 2 metres of the edge of a roof that has a slope of less than 3/12 in circumstances described in paragraph 141 (a), (b) or (c), fall protection shall be used, in accordance with paragraph 141 (d), (e), (f), (g), or (h).
(3) Where work is being done from or on a roof that has a slope that is equal to or greater than 3/12 but less than 6/12, under circumstances described in paragraph 141 (a), (b) or (c)
(a) a fully decked scaffold with toeboards installed continuously along the edge of the roof,
(b) roof brackets, guardrails and toeboards installed continuously along the edge of the roof, or
(c) a fall arrest system in accordance with paragraph 141
(d) shall be implemented.
(4) Where work is being done from a roof that has a slope that is equal to or greater than 6/12 but less than 9/12, under circumstances described in paragraph 141 (a), (b) or (c), a combination of 2 of the following shall be implemented:
(a) roof brackets,
(b) a fully decked scaffold with toeboards installed continuously along the length of the eave, and
(c) a fall arrest system in accordance with paragraph 141 (d).
(5) Where work is done from or on a roof that has a slope equal to or greater than 9/12, under circumstances described in paragraph 141 (a), (b) or (c), roof brackets with planks and a fall arrest system shall be used in accordance with these regulations.
(6) Crawl boards and ladders used for roof work shall be securely fastened over the ridge of the roof or be otherwise effectively anchored.
(7) An eavestrough shall not be used to support a crawl board or ladder on a roof.
General Requirements Section 141
Where a worker is exposed to the hazard of falling from a work area that is
(a) 3 metres or more above the nearest safe surface or water;
(b) above a surface or thing that could cause injury to the worker if the worker were to fall on the surface or thing; or
(c) above an open tank, pit or vat containing hazardous material,
the employer shall ensure that
(d) the worker is provided with a fall arrest system that meets the requirements of section 142 ;
(e) a guardrail that meets the requirements of section 28 is constructed or installed at the work area;
(f) a personnel safety net that meets the requirements of section 143 is installed at the work area;
(g) temporary flooring that meets the requirements of section 146 is constructed or installed at the work area; or
(h) the worker is provided with another means of fall protection that provides a level of safety equal to or greater than a fall arrest system that meets the requirements of section 142 .
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012 under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, (O.C. 2012-005) Newfoundland and Labrador Regulation 5/12
https://www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/Regulations/rc120005.htm
Guardrails and Toeboards Section 161
(1) Except as otherwise provided by subsection (2), a work platform 1.22 metres or more above grade or floor level shall have guardrails on all open sides and ends which comply with the requirements of sections 28 and 30 .
(2) Where an edge of the work platform is adjacent to a structure that provides protection equivalent to guardrails, guardrails may be omitted on that edge and there may be an open space of up to 30 centimetres between the work platform and the structure.
(3) Toeboards shall be provided and comply with all the requirements for toeboards set out in these regulations.
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012 under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, (O.C. 2012-005) Newfoundland and Labrador Regulation 5/12
https://www.assembly.nl.ca/Legislation/sr/Regulations/rc120005.htm
Access, Egress and Movement Section 458
1) All workplaces shall have safe and appropriate means of access and egress.
2) Work areas shall be arranged to allow the safe movement of workers, equipment and materials.
3) An aisle or passageway designated for pedestrian traffic shall be clearly indicated by markings or other means and, where practicable, floor or grade markings shall be used.
4) Practical means of emergency escape shall be provided from a work area in which work processes could create an immediate threat to workers, and where regular means of egress could be rendered dangerous or unusable.
5) A walkway shall not be less than 50.80 centimetres wide and shall be accessible by means of a fixed ladder or stairway.
6) A curb shall be installed on an elevated thoroughfare to prevent equipment from running off the open edge of the thoroughfare.
Fixed ladders Section 155
1) A fixed ladder shall comply with the requirements of ANSI Standard A14.3 2002 "American National Standard for Ladders Fixed Safety Requirements" or other standard acceptable to the minister.
2) All fixed ladders, where a potential fall is more than 7.32 metres in length, shall be
a) provided with platforms at intervals not greater than 7.32 metres;
b) provided with safety cages starting at 2.13 metres and a maximum of 2.44 metres from the base of the ladder; or
c) provided with acceptable devices to prevent workers from falling.
3) Fixed ladders shall be anchored at intervals of not more than 3.05 metres for the entire length of the ladder.
4) A continuous clearance of at least 17.78 centimetres shall be provided at the back of rungs of fixed ladders.
5) Ladder rungs shall be omitted above the landing and the side rails shall extend at least 1.07 metres above the landing.
6) Where acceptable devices to prevent workers from falling are used, platforms shall be provided at intervals not greater than 45.72 metres where the continuous length of climb is greater than 45.72 metres and every 45.72 metres afterward.
Prince
Edward
Island
References from the Prince Edward Island Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Prince Edward Island OHS Act & Regulations
General Requirements - Part 2
(1) Where a worker is exposed to the hazard of falling from a work area that is
(a) 3 m or more above the nearest safe surface or water;
(b) above a surface or thing that could cause injury to the worker if the worker were to fall on the surface or thing; or
(c) above an open tank, pit or vat containing hazardous material,
the employer of the worker shall ensure that
(d) the worker is provided with a fall arrest system that meets the requirements of section 3;
(e) a guardrail that meets the requirements of section 4 is constructed or installed at the work area;
(f) a personnel safety net that meets the requirements of section 6 is installed at the work area;
(g) temporary flooring that meets the requirements of section 9 is constructed or installed at the work area; or
(h) the worker is provided with another means of fall protection that provides a level of safety equal to or greater than a fall arrest system that meets the requirements of section 3.
Prince Edward Island Occupational Health And Safety Act Fall Protection Regulations
https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/sites/default/files/legislation/o01-01-1-occupational_health_and_safety_act_fall_protection_regulations.pdf
Fixed Ladders Section 23
(1) The employer shall ensure that a fixed ladder more than 6 096 mm (20 ft.) in length is provided with Fixed ladders
(a) a safety rail secured to the ladder; or
(b) cage guards with offset platforms at intervals not greater than 9 144 mm (30 ft.); or
(c) adequate fall arresting equipment.
Nova
Scotia
References from the Nova Scotia Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Nova Scotia Workplace Health and Safety Regulations
When Fall Protection is Required Section 21.2
Fall protection required
1. Except as provided in subsections (3) to (5), fall protection is required if a person is at risk of falling from a work area where the fall distance is
a. 3 m or more above the nearest safe surface or water;
b. less than 3 m and the work area is above 1 of the following:
i. a surface or thing that could cause injury to the person on contact that is worse than an injury from landing on a solid, flat surface,
ii. exposed hazardous material, such as in an open tank, pit or vat.
2. If fall protection is required, an employer must ensure that at least 1 of the following means of fall protection is used, as appropriate in the circumstances:
a. a guardrail;
b. temporary flooring;
c. a personnel safety net;
d. a travel restraint system;
e. a fall-arrest system.
3. Fall protection is not required for a person who is entering or exiting a work area by a safe means of access and egress.
4. Fall protection is required only where reasonably practicable and to the extent reasonably practicable in any of the following circumstances:
a. if work must be performed on or from a vehicle, rail car or other mobile equipment;
b. if it is not reasonably practicable to perform work other than from a ladder and it is not reasonably practicable for the person performing the work to maintain adequate contact with the ladder while performing the work;
c. if the density of tree branches prevents an arborist from crotching.
5. If it is not reasonably practicable to use fall protection in the circumstances described in subsection (4), an employer must ensure that an alternate control measure is used to reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the risk of a fall.
https://www.novascotia.ca/just/regulations/regs/ohsworkplace.htm
Fixed Ladders Section 147
An employer shall ensure that a fixed ladder is designed, constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with the latest version of ANSI standard ANSI A14.3 “American National Standard for Ladders - Fixed - Safety Requirements”.
New
Brunswick
References from the New Brunswick Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
New Brunswick Occupational Health and Safety Act
Fall Protection Systems
Section 49
(1) The employer shall provide and the employee shall continually use a fall-protection system when an employee works from
a) an unguarded work area that is
i. 3 m or more above water or the nearest permanent safe level,
ii. above any surface or object that could cause injury to the employee upon contact, or
iii. above any open top tank, bin, hopper or vat,
b) a work area that is 3 m or more above a permanent safe level and from which a person may fall if the work area tips or fails, or
c) a work area where an officer has determined that it is necessary for safety reasons to use a fallprotection system.
Section 50
(1) An owner of a place of employment, an employer and a contractor shall each ensure that employees use fall-protection systems in following order of precedence:
a) a guardrail, a travel restraint system or a fall restricting system; or
b) a fall-arresting system.
(2) Despite subsection (1), the use of a guardrail is not permitted on a surface that has a slope exceeding 6 in 12.
(3) Despite subsection (1), where a fall-protection system is not practical an owner of a place of employment, an employer and a contractor shall each ensure an employee uses a control zone.
Occupational Health and Safety Act New Brunswick Regulation 91-191
https://laws.gnb.ca/en/ShowPdf/cr/91-191.pdf
Fixed Ladders
121(2) An employer shall ensure that a fixed ladder that is more than 6 m in height is equipped with ladder cages.
121(3) Subsection (2) does not apply where an employee on the ladder uses a fall-arresting system.
Quebec
References from the Quebec Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Safety Measures Section 2.9.1. - Quebec Safety Code for the Construction Industry
Workers shall be protected against falls in the following cases:
1. if they are at risk of falling more than 3 m from the place where he is working;
2. if they are at risk of falling:
a. into a dangerous liquid or substance;
b. on a moving component;
c. on equipment or material that constitute a danger;
d. from a height of 1.2 m or more where they use a wheelbarrow or a vehicle.
In such cases and subject to section 2.9.2, one or several of the following measures shall be taken by the employer to ensure the safety of workers:
1. change the work position of workers so that they can work on the ground or on another surface from which they are not at risk of falling;
2. install guard-rails or a system which, by limiting the movements of workers, prevent them from being at risk of falling;
3. use common protective devices and equipment, such as safety nets;
4. ensure that workers wear safety harnesses secured to an anchorage system by a fall arrest connecting device, the whole in accordance with sections 2.10.12 and 2.10.15 when they are working. When workers cannot position themselves without the help of their fall arrest connecting device, ensure that they also use a means of positioning, such as a plank on brackets, a positioning tether or strap, a suspension cable or a platform;
5. use another means that ensures equivalent safety for workers.
R.R.Q., 1981, c. S-2.1, r. 6, s. 2.9.1; O.C. 329-94, s. 6; O.C. 35-2001, s. 5; O.C. 606-2014, s. 3.
Legis Quebec Safety Code For The Construction Industry
https://www.legisquebec.gouv.qc.ca/en/document/cr/S-2.1,%20r.%204
Installation of Guardrails Section 2.9.2 - Quebec Safety Code for the Construction Industry
Installation of guardrails: Guardrails must be placed on open sides of a floor, roof, platform, ramp, or scaffoldings or stairs around an excavation or any area from which workers may fall:
1. into a dangerous liquid or substance;
2. a vertical distance of 1.2 m or more where he uses a wheelbarrow or another vehicle; or
3. a height greater than 3 m in other cases.
Section 23 - Quebec Regulation Respecting Occupational Health and Safety
Permanent ladders used to replace service stairs shall:
a. be of safe construction and solidly anchored to withstand a mass of 90 kg at the centre of the rungs with a safety factor of 4;
b. for ladders exceeding 9 m, have rest platforms equipped with guardrails, at least at 6 m intervals;
c. have a free space behind the rungs of at least 150 mm;
d. have a free space on each side of at least 375 mm and forward of at least 800 mm, measured from the centre of a rung;
e. extend 900 mm beyond the top storey;
f. be provided with guardrails surrounding the floor opening with a removable gate for access to the ladder;
g. be provided with a fall arrestor in compliance with CSA Standard Z259.2.5 Fall Arresters and Vertical Lifelines, or CSA Standard Z259.2.4 Fall Arresters and Vertical Rigid Rails where there is danger of a fall greater than 6 m.
Subparagraphs 3 and 4 of the first paragraph apply only to permanent ladders built, installed or modified on or after 2 August 2001.
Despite subparagraph 7, permanent ladders installed before 3 January 2019 may, until they are modified, be provided with crinolines, cages or a fall arrestor in compliance with CAN/CSA Standard Z259.2.1-98 Fall Arresters, Vertical Lifelines and Rails, where there is danger of a fall greater than 6 m.
Ontario
References from the Ontario Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Sections 26.1 to 26.9 apply where a worker may be exposed to any of the following hazards
1. Falling more than 3 metres.
2. Falling more than 1.2 metres, if the work area is used as a path for a wheelbarrow or similar equipment.
3. Falling into operating machinery.
4. Falling into water or another liquid.
5. Falling into or onto a hazardous substance or object.
6. Falling through an opening on a work surface. O. Reg. 145/00, s. 12; O. Reg. 85/04, s. 4; O. Reg. 345/15, s. 4.
Sections 26.3
(1) Despite paragraph 1 of section 26, a guardrail system that meets the requirements of this section shall be used if a worker has access to the perimeter or an open side of any of the following work surfaces and may be exposed to a fall of 2.4 metres or more:
1) A floor, including the floor of a mezzanine or balcony.
2) The surface of a bridge.
3) A roof while formwork is in place.
4)A scaffold platform or other work platform, runway or ramp. O. Reg. 145/00, s. 14; O. Reg. 345/15, s. 6.
(2) One of the following precautions shall be used to prevent a worker from falling through an opening on a work surface:
1) A guardrail system that meets the requirements of this section.
2) A protective covering that,
i) completely covers the opening,
ii) is securely fastened,
iii) is adequately identified as covering an opening,
iv) is made from material adequate to support all loads to which the covering may be subjected, and
v) is capable of supporting a live load of at least 2.4 kilonewtons per square metre without exceeding the allowable unit stresses for the material used. O. Reg. 145/00, s. 14.
https://www.safetyguystraining.com/oreg-21391.html
Ontario R.R.O 1990, Reg. 851: Industrial Establishments Section 18(1) Subject to subsection (2), an access ladder fixed in position shall,
(a) be vertical;
(b) have rest platforms at not more than nine metre intervals;
(c) be offset at each rest platform;
(d) where the ladder extends over five metres, above grade, floor or landing, have a safety cage commencing not more than 2.2 metres above grade, floor or landing and continuing at least ninety centimetres above the top landing with openings to permit access by a worker to rest platforms or to the top landing;
(e) have side rails that extend ninety centimetres above the landing; and
(f) have rungs which are at least fifteen centimetres from the wall and spaced at regular intervals. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 18 (1); O. Reg. 420/10, s. 4.
(2) Subsection (1) does not apply to an access ladder on a tower, water tank, chimney or similar structure which has a safety device which will provide protection should a worker using the ladder fall. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 18 (2).
Where frequent access is required to equipment elevated above or located below floor level, permanent platforms shall be provided with access by a fixed,
a) stair; or
b) access ladder. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 19.
Controls
The following minimum fall protection measures and procedures are recommended to protect workers who may be exposed to the hazard of falling when working on or near skylights on rooftops of buildings or other structures:
1) ensure a risk assessment and job hazard analysis is performed before any work takes place. The analysis should answer the following questions:
a) Are skylights installed at the worksite?
b) In what condition are the skylights?
c) Can the skylights support the impact of a falling worker?
d) Are the skylights suitably guarded or shielded to prevent a worker from falling through?
c) Is there space to position (install) temporary guardrails or barriers around or over the skylights?
2) Establish and monitor the implementation of a fall protection program. Make continuous improvements, as required, based on knowledge, expertise and practical experience
3) limit rooftop access by implementing a roof permit system in which only authorized people and competent workers can gain access to the roof, and
4) ensure all workers who go up on a roof are trained to recognize, evaluate and control all fall related hazards.
Specific controls for skylights:
1) Every skylight must be considered to be a fall hazard when workers are on a roof. The only exception is if the employer has obtained an opinion from an Ontario-licensed Professional Engineer that the skylight can withstand any load to which it may be subjected and is not likely to endanger a worker.
2) A Fall Protection Program must be established and implemented to protect workers who work near a skylight and may include the following fall protection measures:
a) temporary guardrails or barriers around a skylight to prevent a worker from falling through or stepping/walking on a skylight
b) a temporary skylight screen, grate or cover of material capable of handling any load imposed by a worker
c) travel restraint systems to prevent a worker from stepping on or falling onto the skylight
d) a fall restricting system designed to limit a worker's free fall.
https://www.ontario.ca/page/workers-falling-through-skylights#section-0
Manitobia
References from the Manitoba Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation Part 14
14.1(1) This part applies to every work place where there is a risk of a worker falling
(a) a vertical distance of 3m or more;
(b) a vertical distance of less than 3m where there is an increased risk of injury due to the surface or item on which the worker might land;
(c) into operating machinery or moving parts of the machinery;
(d) into water or another liquid;
(e) into or onto a hazardous substance or object
(f) through an opening on a worksurface; or
(g) a vertical distance of more than 1.2m from an area used as a path for a wheel barrow or similar equipment.
https://www.gov.mb.ca/labour/safety/pdf/whs_workplace_safety_act_and_regs.pdf
A protection system must be implemented to control the hazards to employees. The system selected depends on the circumstances related to the job. Ideally, the choice of a protection system will be one that removes the risk of falling entirely.
For example, it is preferable that a fixed barrier is provided to prevent an employee from falling. The second line of defense is personal protective equipment (a safety harness and lifeline).
Fall protection systems can include:
• surface protection (non-slip flooring);
• fixed barriers (handrails, guardrails);
• surface opening protection (removable covers, guardrails);
• travel restraint systems (safety line and belt);
• fall arrest systems (safety line and harness);
• fall containment systems (safety nets);
• a life jacket including the following rescue equipment:
• an appropriate boat equipped with a boat hook, a buoyancy device with no less than 15m of 9mm diameter nylon rope and a signaling device; and
• a full body suit that protects the worker from hypothermia and buoyancy equipment that meets CSA standards, when working on ice where water below is more than 1 metre deep.
Fall Protection Systems
14.6 When the use of a guardrail system is not reasonably practicable or would not be effective, an employer must ensure that the worker is protected by at least one of the following fall protection systems:
a) a travel restraint system;
b) a fall arrest system;
c) a safety net;
d) another fall protection system approved by the director.
Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation - 2022
https://www.gov.mb.ca/labour/safety/pdf/whs_workplace_safety_act_and_regs.pdf
Building Requirements Part - Required roof protection
14.27(1) The owner of a building that is more than five storeys tall or 15m in height that is constructed after the coming into force of this regulation must either
a) provide a permanent perimeter guardrail system that meets the requirements of this Part; or
b) provide roof-level protection consisting of
i. a continuous parapet or fencing not less than 900mm in height, or
ii. a system of lifeline anchors with one anchor set back a minimum of 3m from the edge of the roof for every six linear metres of unprotected roof edge.
Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Act and Regulation 2022
https://www.gov.mb.ca/labour/safety/pdf/whs_workplace_safety_act_and_regs.pdf
- Meets the requirements of the ANSI Standard, ANSI 14.3 “Ladders – Fixed – Safety Requirements".
- Has side rails that extend at least one metre above any platform, roof or other landing on the building or structure to which it is fixed.
- Has an opening in the platform, roof or other landing that does not exceed 750 mm (29.5") x 750 mm (29.5").
- Is equipped, if it is more than 5 m (16' 5") high, with ladder cages and rest platforms, at intervals of not more than 5 m (16' 5"), or a fall protection system that meets the requirements of Part 14 of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation.
- A handrail that extends its entire length and is between 800 mm (31.5") and 920 mm (36.25") above the front edge of the treads.
- Treads that are level and uniform in width and depth and in the vertical distances between them throughout the length of the ladder.
- On an open side, both a handrail and an intermediate rail or equivalent safeguard.
26.13(1) If a worker is required or permitted to cross over an excavation, and employer must ensure that the excavation is equipped with and adequate walkway with suitable guardrails that meet the requirements of Part 14 (Fall Protection).
Saskatchewan
References from the Saskatchewan Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Protection Against Falling Part 9
An employer or contractor shall ensure that workers use a fall protection system
at a temporary or permanent work area if:
(a) a worker may fall 3 metres or more; or
(b) there is a possibility of injury if a worker falls less than 3 metres
An employer or contractor shall ensure that workers use a fall protection system at a temporary or permanent work area where:
a. a worker may fall three metres or more; or
b. there is a possibility of injury if a worker falls less than three metres.
3. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker at a permanent work area is protected from falling by a guardrail or similar barrier if the worker may fall a vertical distance of more than 1.2 metres and less than three metres.
4. Notwithstanding subsection (3), where the use of a guardrail or similar barrier is not reasonably practicable, an employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker uses a travel restraint system.
5. Notwithstanding subsection (4), where the use of a travel restraint system is not reasonably practicable, an employer or contractor shall ensure that a safety net or control zone or other equally effective means that protects the worker from falling is used.
6. Subsection (2) does not apply to competent workers who are engaged in:
a. connecting the structural members of a skeletal steel structure or a pre-cast structure;
b. connecting the support structure of a scaffold;
c. stabilizing or securing the load on a truck or trailer;
d. installing or attaching a fall protection system to the anchor point;
e. removing or disassembling the associated parts of a fall protection system when it is no longer required; or
f. activities within the normal course of business on a permanent loading dock that is not greater than 1.2 metres in height.
Protection Against Falling Part 116
1. In this section and sections 116.1 to 116.3:
a. “anchor point” or “anchor plate” means a secure connecting point capable of safely withstanding the impact forces applied by a fall protection system;
b. “control zone” means the area within two metres of an unguarded edge of a level, elevated work surface of three metres or more in height;
c. “fall protection system” means:
i. a control zone as required pursuant to section 116.2;
ii. a personal fall arrest system;
iii. a safety net; or
iv. a travel restraint system;
d. “permanent” means intended and designed to last indefinitely;
e. “similar barrier” means any barrier that the employer or contractor can demonstrate provides a level of protection that is at least equivalent to a guardrail;
f. “temporary” means:
i. designed to be removed by the last workers using it before
commissioning or turnover to the contractor or owner; and
ii. intended and designed to last not more than one year;
g. “travel restraint system” means a system that prevents a worker from travelling to the edge of a structure or to a work position from which the
worker could fall.
2. An employer or contractor shall ensure that workers use a fall protection system at a temporary or permanent work area where:
a. a worker may fall three metres or more; or
b. there is a possibility of injury if a worker falls less than three metres.
3. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker at a permanent work area is protected from falling by a guardrail or similar barrier if the worker may fall a vertical distance of more than 1.2 metres and less than three metres.
4. Notwithstanding subsection (3), where the use of a guardrail or similar barrier is not reasonably practicable, an employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker uses a travel restraint system.
5. Notwithstanding subsection (4), where the use of a travel restraint system is not reasonably practicable, an employer or contractor shall ensure that a safety net or control zone or other equally effective means that protects the worker from falling is used.
6. Subsection (2) does not apply to competent workers who are engaged in:
a. connecting the structural members of a skeletal steel structure or a
pre-cast structure;
b. connecting the support structure of a scaffold;
c. stabilizing or securing the load on a truck or trailer;
d. installing or attaching a fall protection system to the anchor point;
e. removing or disassembling the associated parts of a fall protection system when it is no longer required; or
f. activities within the normal course of business on a permanent loading dock that is not greater than 1.2 metres in height.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 1996 - Repealed by Chapter S-15.1 Reg 10 (effective April 1, 2021).
Control Zone Part 9
1. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a control zone:
a. is only used if a worker can fall from a level surface in a work area; and
b. is not less than two metres wide when measured from the unguarded edge.
2. When crossing a control zone mentioned in subsection (1), a worker:
a. subject to subsection (4) is not required to use a fall protection system, other than the control zone, to enter or leave the work area; and
b. shall follow the most direct route to get to or from the unguarded edge.
3. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a control zone is clearly marked with an effective raised warning line or other equally effective method if a worker is working more than two metres from an unguarded edge.
4. An employer or contractor shall ensure that a worker who has to work within a control zone uses:
a. a travel restraint system; or
b. a means that is as equally effective as a travel restraint system and that prevents the worker from getting to the unguarded edge.
Fixed Ladders Part 16
(f) a fixed ladder that is more than 6 metres high:
(i) is equipped with:
(A) platforms at intervals of not more than 6 metres or ladder
cages, in the case of ladders installed on or before March 11, 1986; or
(B) platforms at intervals of not more than 6 metres and ladder
cages, in the case of ladders installed on or after March 12, 1986; or
(ii) is equipped with a personal fall arrest system that meets the
requirements of Part 7; and ...
Alberta
References from the Alberta Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
General Protection Section 139
139(1) An employer and a supervisor must ensure that a worker is protected from falling if a worker may fall,
a) at a temporary or permanent work area, a vertical distance of 3 metres or more,
b) at a temporary or permanent work area, a vertical distance of less than 3 metres if there is an unusual possibility of injury,
c) at a temporary or permanent work area, into or onto a hazardous substance or object, or through an opening in a work surface, or
d) at a permanent work area, a vertical distance of more than 1.2 metres and less than 3 metres.
139(2) For the purposes of this section, there is an unusual possibility of injury if the injury may be worse than an injury from landing on a solid, flat surface.
139(3) Subject to subsection (5), an employer must install a guardrail.
139(4) Repealed.
139(5) Subject to subsection (6), if the use of a guardrail is not reasonably practicable, an employer and a supervisor must ensure that a worker uses a travel restraint system that meets the requirements of this Part.
139(6) Subject to subsection (7), if the use of a travel restraint system is not reasonably practicable, an employer and a supervisor must ensure that a worker uses a personal fall arrest system that meets the requirements of this Part.
139(7) If the use of a personal fall arrest system is not reasonably practicable, an employer and a supervisor must ensure that a worker uses equally effective controls.
139(8) A worker must use a fall protection system as required by this section.
Occupational Health & Safety Act Code - Alberta Regulation 191/202
Control Zones Section 161
161(1) If a control zone is used, an employer must ensure that it
a) Is only used if a worker can fall from a surface that has a slope of no more than 4 degrees toward an unguarded edge or that slopes inwardly away from an unguarded edge, and
b) Is not less than 2 metres wide when measured from the unguarded edge.
161(2) An employer must not use a control zone to protect workers from falling from a skeletal structure that is a work area
161(3) If a worker will at all times remain further from the unguarded edge than the width of the control zone, no other fall protection system need be used.
161(4) Despite section 139, a worker is not required to use a fall protection system when crossing the control zone to enter or leave the work area.
161(5) When crossing a control zone referred to in subsections (3) and (4), to get to or from the unguarded edge, a worker must follow the most direct route.
161(6) An employer must ensure that a control zone is clearly marked with an effective raised warning line or another equally effective method if a worker is working within 2 metres of the control zone.
161(7) An employer must ensure that a worker who must work within a control zone uses
a) A travel restraint system, or
b) An equally effective means of preventing the worker from getting to the unguarded edge.
161(8) A person who is not directly required for the work at hand must not be inside a control zone.
Fixed Ladders
Despite subsections (3)(e) and (3)(f), the ladder may have a maximum unbroken length of more than 9.1 metres and does not require a ladder cage if a fall protection system complying with Part 9 is used.
Ladder cages are required on ladder having a minimum unbroken length of 6.1 metres (20 feet); (cage not required if the ladder incorporates a fall arrest system). The lowest point of the ladder cage is within 2.1 metres (7 feet) to 2.4 metres (8 feet) of the walking surface. The ladderway opening requires a safety gate or equivalent means.
British
Columbia
References from the British Columbia Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Obligation to Use Fall Protection - Section 11
(1) Unless elsewhere provided for in this Regulation, an employer must ensure that a fall protection system is used when work is being done at a place
(a) from which a fall of 3 m (10 ft) or more may occur, or
(b) where a fall from a height of less than 3 m involves a risk of injury greater than the risk of injury from the impact on a flat surface.
Guardrail locations
4.55 An area accessible to workers must have guards or guardrails installed in any of the following circumstances:
a) if a raised floor, open-sided floor, mezzanine, gallery, balcony, work platform, ramp, walkway, or runway is 122 cm (4 ft.) or more above the adjacent floor or grade level;
b) on both sides of any walkway over or adjacent to any substance which is a hazard if a worker fell in, or on it, or which is over machinery or work areas;
c) around the perimeter of any open container or containment area such as an open vat, bin, tank or pit which is 122 cm (4 ft.) or more in depth and which has sides that do not extend at least as high as required for a guardrail above the adjacent grade or work surface;
d) if a stairway ends in direct proximity to dangerous traffic or other hazard to prevent inadvertent entry into the dangerous area.
Exceptions
4.56 Section 4.55 does not apply
a) to the front edge of a loading dock or to the viewing edge of a performance stage, and to parts of the scenic units which will be visible to the audience during a rehearsal or performance, provided effective measures are taken to ensure that workers are protected from injury,
b) during the construction, demolition, renovation or modification of a work area provided that
i. access is restricted only to the workers involved in the activity, and
ii. the requirements of Part 11 [Fall Protection] are followed, or
c) to a movable work platform or scaffold, as those terms are defined in section 13.1, if the movable work platform or scaffold meets the requirements set out in section 13.2 (1) (a) and (b) and (2) that apply in respect of guardrails on the movable work platform or scaffold.
Elevated workers
4.57 If a worker is employed on stilts or work platforms, or is otherwise elevated above the floor, and the effective height of guardrails, walls, or barricades is thus reduced to less than the height specified in section 4.54, additional guardrails must be installed or a personal fall protection system must be used in accordance with the relevant requirements contained in Part 11 [Fall Protection].
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation Part 4 - General Conditions
https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/complete/statreg/296_97_02#section4.55
Ladders - Section 24
Fixed ladders must be provided at every dock for access to and egress from the water, and must
a) be spaced at intervals not exceeding 30 m (100 ft),
b) extend from the top of the dock to at least 1 m (3.3 ft) below the lowest water level,
c) be maintained free of barnacles and marine growth, and
d) have their location identified by high visibility paint on the curb or bullrail.
Northwest
Territories
References from the Northwest Territories Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations - Section 119 Protection Against Falling
(1) An employer shall ensure that workers use a fall protection system at a work site if
(a) a worker could fall 3 m or more; or
(b) there is a risk of injury if a worker falls less than 3 m.
Nunavut Safety Legislation - Handrails and Guardrails
89. A flight of stairs having more than four risers must be equipped with handrails on the open sides of the stairways.
90.
1) Handrails must be installed
a) on one side of enclosed stairways 112 cm (44 in.) or less in width; and
b) on both sides of enclosed stairways more than 112 cm (44 in.) in width.
2) The top of a handrail must be at a height of 76 cm to 86 cm (30 in. to 34 in.) above the stair tread, measured vertically from the nose of the tread.
3) The height of the handrail must not vary on a flight or succession of flights of stairs.
4) Where a stairway ends near dangerous traffic or other hazards, detour guardrails must be installed.
Protection Against Falling
119. (1) An employer shall ensure that workers use a fall protection system at a work site if
(a)a worker could fall 3 m or more; or
(b)there is a risk of injury if a worker falls less than 3 m.
(2)An employer shall ensure that workers at a permanent work site are protected from falling by a guardrail or similar barrier if a worker could fall a vertical distance of between 1.2 m and 3 m.
(3)Notwithstanding subsection (2), if the use of a guardrail or similar barrier is not reasonably possible, an employer shall ensure that the worker uses a travel restraint system.
(4)Notwithstanding subsection (3), if the use of a travel restraint system by a worker is not reasonably possible, an employer shall ensure that the worker is protected from falling by the use of a safety net, control zone or other equally effective safeguards.
(5) Subsection (1) does not apply to competent workers who are engaged in
(a) installing or attaching a fall protection system to the anchor point;
(b) removing or disassembling the associated parts of a fall protection system when it is no longer required; or
(c) activities within the normal course of business on a permanent loading dock that does not exceed 1.2 m in height.
Occupational Health and Safety Regulations R-039-2015
https://www.justice.gov.nt.ca/en/files/legislation/safety/safety.r8.pdf?t1446244135517
Ladders
246. A ladder must be designed, constructed and installed to meet the requirements of
a) the Canadian Standards Association, for portable ladders;
b) the American National Standards Institute, for fixed ladders; or
c) other standards that are acceptable to the Chief Safety Officer.
258. A fixed ladder more than 6.1 m (20 ft.) in length must be provided with
a) platforms at intervals not greater than 6.1 m (20 ft.);
b) safety cages; or
c) acceptable devices to prevent workers from falling.
Yukon Territory
References from the Yukon Occupational Safety Code relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
Fall Protection
10.11 A worker shall be protected by the use of a fall restraint system, a fall arrest system, a control zone, or another system of fall protection acceptable to the director when a worker is engaged in any work on a roof that
a) is 3 m (10 ft.) or more above the ground or other safe working level,
b) has a slope of 2 vertical to 3 horizontal or steeper, or
c) has an unguarded edge.
Protective Equipment and Clothing – Fall Arrest
Provision and use
1.37 Where it is not practical to protect a worker by guards, guardrails, safety nets or other devices, the worker shall be provided with and required to use the appropriate fall arrest protection
Where required
a) when working at a place from which a fall of
i. 3 m (10ft.) or more may occur, or
ii. Less than 3 m (10ft.), if it involves an usual risk of injury,
b) where there is a possibility of falling into a pit, shaft, machinery, water or bulk material that could shift,
c) when climbing or descending from utility poles, communication and transmission towers or single point suspension equipment,
d) when working on a swing stage or thrust out scaffold, elevating work platform or basket or suspended platform or cage,
e) when barring or scaling loose material from aa wall in an open pit or an earth work, or
f) when working on a roof
i. having a slope of 2 vertical to 3 horizontal or steeper, or
ii. where the surface is slippery.
Fall protection program
1.38 Where work is performed at a location not protected by permanent guardrails and from which a fall of 7.5 m (25 ft.) or more may occur, a written fall protection plan shall be in place and communicated to workers with adequate consideration and description of
a) falling hazards expected,
b) fall protection system or systems to be used,
c) the procedure to assemble, maintain, inspect, use and disassemble the fall protection system or systems, and
d) methods to rescue a fallen worker or one who is suspended by a personal fall protection system or safety net and is unable to effect self rescue.
Guardrails Section 1.60
Where required
Subject to subsection (f), areas accessible to a worker shall have guards or guardrails installed
a) if a raised floor, open-sided floor, mezzanine, gallery, balcony, work platform, surface of a bridge, a concrete roof or scaffold has a height exceeding 2.4 m (8 ft.),
b) if a walkway, runway, ramp or platform other than a scaffold is used as a path and is more than 1.2 m (4 ft.) in height,
c) on any walkway over or adjacent to any hazardous substance, or adjacent to or over machinery or a work area,
d) around the perimeter of any open container or containment area such as an open vat, bin, tank or pit that is 1.2 m (4 ft.) or more in depth, and with sides that do not extend at least as high as required for a guardrail above the adjacent grade or work surface,
e) if a stairway ends in direct proximity to dangerous traffic or other hazard, and
Loading docks, stages
f) except where other effective measures are taken to ensure that workers are protected from falls from the front edge of a loading dock or the edge of a performance stage.
Inspections - Section 1.61
1) A competent person shall inspect guardrails on a regular basis and if they do not meet the specification requirements, the guardrails shall be repaired immediately to meet those requirements or they shall be replaced.
Gates
2. An opening for passage through a guardrail shall be equipped with a barrier or gate that may be removed temporarily to permit passage and then replaced immediately.
Removal
3. Where a guardrail is removed in order for work to be done,
a. adequate precautions shall be taken to ensure the safety of the workers, and
b. the area shall not be left unguarded.
c. A worker who removes a guardrail, in order to do a particular task, shall replace the guardrail before leaving the area.
Workers' Safety And Compensation Board - Yukon
https://www.wcb.yk.ca/regulations/part-1-general
Control zone requirements
10.14 Where a control zone system is used where work is being done at a place where a fall of 3 m (10 ft.) or more may occur and the use of a fall arrest or fall restraint system is not practicable or may result in an additional hazard, the system shall meet the following requirements:
a) a control zone system shall not be used on a roof with a slope of more than 4 vertical to 12 horizontal,
b) the control zone shall be at least 2 m (6 ft.) in width, with additional distance added when
i. the working surface is slippery or sloped,
ii. the work is being conducted on an elevation above the unguarded edge, or
iii. the risk is increased by the use of equipment near the control zone,
c) where the work will be done within 2 m (6 ft.) of the control zone, a line defining the control zone shall be made clear by raising the warning line or by another equally effective means,
d) a raised warning line marking the edge of a control zone shall be
i. a line of high-visibility material or a line flagged or clearly marked with high-visibility material, placed less than 2 m (6 ft.) apart, and
ii. rigged and maintained to be between 0.85 m and 1.15 m (34 in. and 45 in.) above the working surface,
e) where work is being done between the unguarded edge and the control zone, a safety monitor shall be appointed to ensure the work is carried out safely or the workers must wear fall protection,
i. the safety monitor shall
ii. be a qualified person, trained in the role and duties of a safety monitor,
iii. be present whenever a worker is inside the control zone,
iv. have authority over the work as it relates to fall protection,
v. only engage in the duties of a safety monitor,
vi. be positioned at or near the work,
vii. be easily distinguishable from the other workers, and
viii. have responsibility for a maximum of eight workers,
f) the only workers allowed inside the control zone shall be those directly involved in the work, and
g) where workers will not be inside the control zone, no other fall protection system shall be required.
A fixed ladder more than 5 m (16 ft.) in height shall
a) be equipped with ladder cages or a safety device that is designed and constructed to lock and to suspend a worker using the device if the worker loses hold of the ladder,
Rest platform
b) have a rest platform at not more than 9 m (30 ft.) intervals, and be offset at each rest platform.
TSSA
References from the TSSA relating to height safety can be found below. Please note that this information has been provided to give general information with regard to height safety and the actual code should be consulted to ensure that you are using the latest information and understanding it in the context of the code/regulation.
For assistance with your particular application, reach out to the Skyline Group sales representative for your area.
The gas code requires that there be a clearance of at least six feet between a roof top unit and the roof edge or other hazard. If you have less than the required six feet of clearance then a variance is required. The TSSA will consider requests for deviations from the code if the following documents are submitted:
Fuels Safety Program Ref. No.: FS-151-09
https://www.tssa.org/en/fuels/resources/Documents/Advisory-Variance-6-Foot-Clearance-To-Roof-Edge-Rev1.pdf
Passage Across Roofs - Section 2.12
(2.12.1) In addition to O.Reg 209/01, s.37, if passage across a roof is required for access to elevating device equipment where there is no parapet or guardrail at least 1070 mm (42 in.) high around the roof or passageway, the following shall apply to facilitate safe passage from the roof top access point to the elevating device equipment:
1) buildings with elevating device installations commissioned on or after December 27, 1985 (effective date of B44-M85) shall be provided with:
a) a permanent, unobstructed and substantial walkway not less than 600 mm (24 in.) wide,
b) a guardrail, on all sides of the walkway designed to meet the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, where there is an exposure to a fall hazard, except
2) buildings with elevating device installations commissioned before December 27, 1985 shall be provided with:
a) the requirements of 2.12.1(a)(1) and 2.12.1(a)(2), or
b) the requirements of 2.12.1(a)(1) and an engineered lifeline in lieu of a guardrail, provided the lifeline is designed to accommodate a travel restraint (safety belt) or fall arrest system in accordance to current requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations. [CAD Amendment 250-11]
Elevating and Amusement Devices Safety Division - Ref. No.: 261-13
https://www.tssa.org/en/elevating-devices/resources/Documents/ED-261-13-r1-CAD-Amendment.pdf
Fuels Safety Program - Ref. No.: FS-225-17
https://www.tssa.org/en/fuels/resources/Documents/Gaseous-Fuels-CAD-Amendment-FS-225-17-Final-May-12-2017.pdf
FAQs
Canada has many fall protection regulations, ensuring that you are protected while working on industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI) rooftops. The reason why ensuring safety can become a challenging task for those that operate, build, design ICI rooftops is because there are both federal and provincial based regulations that apply. While also taking into consideration the standards around recognizing a hazard and proactively taking action, the regulations also include design parameters that must be followed by manufacturers and specifiers.
We all play a part in taking a proactive approach to ensuring a safe working environment, nobody wants to discover safety by accident! That being said, with the Westray law (Bill C-45) building owners and site leads are criminally liable for an incident that occurs while work is being done on the roof.
If you are working at heights, whichever the application or building type, there are fall protection requirements that apply. The regulations are intended to not only prevent an injury while working at heights, but to also prevent a near miss.
The requirements differ by system/solution, application and the province that the work is being completed. Standards are becoming more and more site/location specific, so it is always important to reach out to your safety partner for a clear understanding prior to conducting work.
The protection in the regulations relating to fall hazards generally apply where a worker is exposed to falling from a height of more than 3 metres (approx. 10 feet). It is always recommended to consult your safety partner as a fall from 6 feet can also be deemed severe. It is important to note that 3 metres is only a general rule. The regulations require the site lead to assess the environment and ensure a safe working environment.
There are many training courses available around hazard awareness, along with best practices in using specific equipment. If fall protection training is of interest contact our team of roof safety specialists to learn how we can help increase safety awareness amongst your team.
