C O V I D - 1 9
Occupational
Health and Safety &
COVID-19 Strange new world of OHS issues at
construction sites
By Patrick Groom and Victor Kim, McMillan
In this strange new world of
construction during the COVID-
19 pandemic, new types of
protective equipment, physical
distancing measures, hygiene practices
and health screening measures –
many of which were unimaginable
or unnecessary on construction sites
only a few months ago – have become
widely accepted. These measures will
likely remain in place throughout the
pandemic and may continue after.
It is important for constructors
and construction employers (industry
professionals) to continue meeting
all of their obligations under
occupational health and safety
(OHS) legislation and public health
orders to ensure worker safety.
Otherwise they face enforcement
measures from OHS regulators (and
disgruntled employees), including,
but not limited to, work stoppages
and regulatory prosecution.
visoot/123rf
Morning toolbox talks now look a little
different than pre-COVID-19
ALBERTA HEAVY Quarter 4 2020 39