Ontario Construction Report staff writer
The Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC) has introduced a new minimum standard for head protection, requiring Type 2 hard hats with integrated chin straps on all member construction sites across Canada.
The requirement took effect July 1 and applies to all workers, subcontractors and visitors on projects operated by CCSC member companies.
The industry-led initiative is intended to reduce the risk of serious head injuries and establish a consistent standard for personal protective equipment across Canada’s construction sector.
Type 2 hard hats provide protection against both top and side impacts. Integrated chin straps are designed to keep the helmet securely in place during slips, falls and other incidents where head protection can become dislodged.
“Construction environments are complex and constantly evolving. Strengthening baseline safety requirements across our member sites is an important step toward better protecting workers from known risks,” said Kieran Hawe, president and chief executive officer of EllisDon.
The council said head injuries resulting from falls and struck-by incidents remain a significant hazard on construction sites. It said adopting Type 2 hard hats is expected to improve worker protection by increasing helmet stability, impact resistance and energy absorption in a broader range of workplace incidents.
“This change reflects a collective commitment from CCSC members to align on higher standards and to adopt proven solutions that can reduce serious injuries across the industry,” Hawe said.
Founded in 2022, the Canadian Construction Safety Council works to improve safety performance and reduce serious workplace injuries through the adoption of common safety standards and best practices across the industry.
The council’s founding members are Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Bird Construction Inc., Dragados Canada Inc., EllisDon Corp., EBC Inc., Graham Construction, Kiewit Corp., Ledcor Industries Inc., PCL Construction, Pennecon and Pomerleau.
“Construction environments are complex and constantly evolving. Strengthening baseline safety requirements across our member sites is an important step toward better protecting workers from known risks,” said Kieran Hawe, President and CEO, EllisDon.
Form more information, visit Canadian Construction Safety Council.