Program Description

Ontario's CPO-approved Working at Heights training program is a comprehensive safety training course designed to prevent falls from heights in the workplace. The program is intended for workers, supervisors, and employers who are responsible for the safety of those who work at heights in construction.

​

Construction Regulation 213/91 requires anyone working at heights to have received training from a CPO-approved training provider. The regulation applies to all construction projects, including new construction, renovation, and demolition projects.

​

The course covers the following topics:

1. ​​Rights and Responsibilities: Participants will learn about their rights and responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations. Workers have the right to a safe work environment, and employers have a legal duty to ensure that workers are protected from workplace hazards. Supervisors play a key role in ensuring that workers are properly trained and equipped to work safely at heights. Workers must also follow safe work practices, use the proper equipment, and report any hazards or safety concerns to their supervisor. The role of the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development is also discussed.
    

2. Identification of the Hazards of Working at Heights: Participants will learn how to identify the hazards associated with working at heights. Hazards may include uneven or unstable surfaces, unprotected edges or openings, and the risk of falling objects. Participants will learn how to identify these hazards and assess the risks associated with them. They will also learn how to develop a fall protection plan to mitigate these risks.
    

3. Eliminating or Controlling the Hazards of Working at Heights: Once the hazards of working at heights have been identified, participants will learn how to eliminate or control those hazards. This may involve implementing engineering controls such as guardrails, nets, or covers, or administrative controls such as work procedures and training. Participants will learn how to determine the appropriate control measures for each hazard and how to ensure that these measures are effective in preventing falls.
    

4. Ladders and Similar Equipment: The safe use of ladders and similar equipment is also covered in the Working at Heights program. Participants will learn about the different types of ladders and how to select the appropriate ladder for the job. They will also learn about ladder safety, including how to inspect and maintain ladders, and how to use ladders safely.
    

5. Warning Methods and Physical Barriers: Warning methods and physical barriers are also covered in the Working at Heights program. Participants will learn about the importance of using warning methods, such as signs and signals, to alert workers to potential hazards. They will also learn about the use of physical barriers, such as guardrails and safety nets, to prevent falls and protect workers.
    

6. Personal Fall Protection: Participants will learn to explain the circumstances that require a travel restraint, fall restricting or fall arresting system, describe the essential components of each system, and recognize that more extensive training is necessary to use these systems safely and effectively.
    

7. Barriers and Other Fixed Equipment: Participants will learn about fixed barriers and other equipment used to prevent falls from heights. This may include guardrails, safety nets, floor covers, and other engineering controls designed to provide a physical barrier between workers and hazards.
    

8. Personal Fall Protection Equipment: Personal fall protection equipment is a key component of the Working at Heights program. Participants will learn about different types of personal fall protection equipment, including harnesses, lanyards, and self-retracting lifelines. They will learn how to select and use the appropriate equipment for the job, as well as how to properly inspect and maintain this equipment. The importance of maintaining 100% tie off is also thoroughly reviewed.
    

9. Anchor Points: Anchor points are critical to the effective use of personal fall protection equipment. Participants will learn about the different types of anchor points, including fixed and temporary anchor points. They will also learn how to select and use the appropriate anchor point for the job, as well as how to properly inspect and maintain anchor points.
    

10. Work Access Equipment and Platforms: Work access equipment and platforms are often used to provide safe access to elevated work areas. Participants will learn about the different types of work access equipment and platforms, with a primary focus on aerial work platforms such as scissor lifts and boom lifts. They will learn how to select and use the appropriate equipment for the job, as well as how to properly tie off.
     

11. Rescue Planning: Participants will learn about the importance of having a rescue plan in place in the event of a fall from heights. This includes identifying the appropriate rescue equipment and personnel, establishing communication protocols, and developing emergency response procedures. Participants will learn how to assess the risks associated with falls and how to develop a rescue plan that ensures a timely and effective response.

 

Throughout the course, participants will have the opportunity to practice and demonstrate their understanding of the material through hands-on exercises, case studies and assessments. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion and will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely at heights.

​

​Regulatory References

• ​Occupational Health & Safety Act

• Ontario Regulation 213/91 Construction Projects

• Ontario Regulation 851 Industrial Establishments