Want to know more information about Ontario elevating work platform training expiry? Elevating work platforms (or EWPs) are also sometimes called aerial lifts or aerial work platforms. They include types of machinery such as cherry pickers, boom lifts, scissor lifts, and bucket trucks. They allow workers to temporarily work at heights, and require proper know-how and training to use safely. Looking for more information on workplace safety? Contact the experts at ACUTE today!
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Ontario Elevating Work Platform Training Expiry
Curious about Ontario elevating work platform training expiry? Some training courses are only valid for a certain period of time before refresher training is required.
Refresher training is usually shorter than initial training and typically provides updated information as well as reminders about best workplace practices. In Ontario, elevating work platform training does not have an official expiry. Unlike courses such as Working at Heights, which expires after three years, elevating work platform training does not expire.
However, though EWP training does not have an official expiry, there are still best practices that you are encouraged to follow in order to keep all workers safe.
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development states that “Periodic training refreshers are recommended to ensure operator competence” (Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development – Elevating Work Platforms Safety Guideline for the Live Performance Industry in Ontario).
A good rule of thumb is to provide your workers with EWP training once a year. Refresher training is usually fairly brief. However, consistent training helps to reinforce proper workplace safety habits. Refresher training can help new workers who may not be fully confident with equipment. It can also remind experienced workers to practice proper safety techniques. This allows experienced workers to act as role models to newer workers!
Who Needs Elevating Work Platform Training?
Elevating work platform training is usually required for those working in warehouses or on construction projects. However, in any industry, anyone using aerial lifts/elevating work platforms must be properly trained before using machinery. Employers must ensure that workers are adequately trained. Improper use of aerial lifts can result in serious or fatal injuries.
In April 2016, the MLITSD issued an alert regarding elevating work platforms and crushing hazards. EWPs are useful and helpful equipment, but when used incorrectly, can cause serious injuries. During incident investigations, the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development found that many EWP accidents involved workers being trapped or crushed between the machine’s platform and an obstruction (such as a beam). Under the “Required Action” section of the MLITSD page, it states:
“Elevating work platform operators are to be trained and familiar with specific equipment operation and follow manufacturer’s operating instructions. Conduct pre-operation inspections as per the manufacturer’s operating manual.”
As we see in the MLITSD alert above, if a worker will be using EWPs, it is extremely important they receive proper training, regardless of the industry. This is also why refresher training is so important. It continually reminds workers of the ever-present hazards in the workplace and helps prevent complacency.
For Construction
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development outlines general duties for those working on construction projects and using elevating work platforms.
As noted on the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development’s page on Elevating Work Platforms in Construction, employers are obligated under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and the Construction Projects Regulation to do the following:
- Employers must ensure workers receive proper training in the use of fall protection systems at Ontario construction sites
[O. Reg. 213/91, section 26.2]
- Employers must ensure a competent person is appointed as supervisor [OHSA clause 25(2)(c)]
- Employers must take every precaution reasonable for the protection of the workers [OHSA clause 25(2)(h)]
(Source)
For Industrial Establishments
The Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development also provides specific information regarding EWPs for industrial establishments. It applies to all establishments deemed “industrial establishments” by the OHSA. The specific rules and regulations for using EWPs in industrial establishments are found in: R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851: INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENTS.
Elevating Work Platform Training Course Outline
Because each workplace is different and has specific hazards, EWP training is often specifically tailored to your workplace. With ACUTE’s Elevating Work Platform training course, there are two components: theory and practical.
During the theory component, participants will learn about all classes of elevating work platforms. However, the practical component covers only the type of EWPs the worker will actually be using in the workplace.
Anyone who works with or around elevating work platforms should complete this training course. This includes those in supervisory positions.
ACUTE’s EWP training course includes:
- Classroom interactions with experienced instructors
- Exploring legislative requirements
- Demonstration and hands-on training on a specific class of EWP
- Safe operating procedures
- Inspections
- Class specific skill testing
- Hazards and safe work practices
- And More!
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ACUTE helps organizations understand their training challenges while also providing unparalleled tailoring and customer service. Here are just a few things you can expect when training with ACUTE:
- Open Door Instructor-Student Partnership – ACUTE’s training services emphasize client participation. Staff want to build relationships with clients and serve as a touchstone for advice anytime moving forward.
- Serving Your Team and Industry – With a vast array of clients in manufacturing, construction, health, academic, and government agencies, ACUTE brings the best safety practices from across the spectrum to your workplace.
- 200 Years Combined Experience – ACUTE provides comprehensive health and safety training, on-site safety services, and consulting services. With over 200 years of combined experience, our staff offer more than theoretical or abstract ideas. ACUTE offers solutions.
- Track Record of Success – ACUTE is rated 4.9/5 stars on Google reviews, demonstrating a commitment to our clients, quality, and passion for training.
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ACUTE is located in Waterloo, Ontario and services customers from the cities such as Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, Milton, Kitchener, London, Guelph, and other cities from across Ontario.
“For over 20 years, Ron Campbell and the professional team at Acute has helped us develop a continuously improving safety program customized to our unique needs in environmental testing and renewable energy services. We are proud of our safety culture and record supported by Acute training services”
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