Health and Safety A-Z
Topic: Construction
Summary:
The definition of construction in the Occupational Health and Safety Act, is vague and includes many tasks commonly regarded as maintenance. There is a grey area between the two activities, but in general terms, the larger or more complex the maintenance work, the more likely it is to be construction.
Why does this matter? Maintenance work is generally governed by the Industrial Regulation, a regulation that applies to workplaces where construction is complete and where safeguards required by legislation such as building, fire, electrical and similar codes are in place. Larger maintenance (renovation) projects often resemble construction. When this is the case the much more detailed and restrictive construction regulations apply. Any person responsible for a project that could be construction must understand this distinction and the rules that apply to the work.
In addition, Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Act was recently amended to make coverage mandatory for any person doing construction or construction-related work. (Note: The OSHA and WSIA define construction differently). Hiring a contractor without confirming WSIB coverage is likely to result in significant fines against the University.
Construction is an area that requires specialized knowledge. No person at Trent University should undertake a construction or construction-related project without first reviewing the planned work with the Project Management Office, Physical Resources Department. In most case PMO approval will be required.
For Information See:
Construction, Ministry of Labour
Compulsory Coverage in Construction, WSIB
Additional Resources:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, OHS Factsheet – Construction
O. Reg. 213/91: CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS – Occupational Health and Safety Act
Last Revised: October 29, 2015