Ontario loading dock blitz yields 3,233 orders • Saskatchewan Association for Safe Workplaces in Health appoints new CEO • WorkSafe Saskatchewan launches ad campaign aimed at youth • WorkSafeBC launches return-to-work video series
Ontario loading dock blitz yields 3,233 orders
TORONTO — An Ontario safety blitz focused on loading dock inspections resulted in 84 stop work orders in February. Ministry of Labour inspectors visited 1,089 workplaces during 1,285 blitz-related visits and issued 3,233 orders. The most frequently issued orders involved violations related to maintenance of equipment, examination of lifting devices, provision of information and instruction to workers and securing of vehicles and machinery, according to Health and Safety Ontario. The blitz was prompted by risks faced by workers in loading docks and shipping and receiving areas. If not controlled, hazards in these areas can result in workers being pinned between loading docks and vehicles, or struck by vehicles, mobile equipment or unsecured items that tip or fall, the organization said. Between Jan. 1, 2000, and Oct. 31, 2010, 15 industrial sector workers died in incidents involving shipping and receiving areas. Goals of the blitz included raising awareness of loading dock hazards, encouraging employers to identify and control hazards and addressing non-compliance.
