WCB Issues Caution Over Removal of Snow From Roofs - February 2002

The Workers Compensation Board issued a hazard alert to remind workers, employers and the general public to follow safety regulations when removing snow and ice build up from roofs. Falls from heights continue to be a leading cause among Islanders for serious and fatal injury

George Stewart, Director of Occupational Health and Safety for the Workers Compensation Board, stated that his officers have issued several workplace orders to employers where unsafe snow and ice removal were taking place. “It is essential that we follow health and safety regulations concerning fall protection when attempting to clear roofs” said Stewart. “There is too great a risk for an accident to happen and for someone to end up seriously injured or killed.”

The Occupational Health and Safety Division of Workers Compensation Board has developed a Fall Protection Guide for employers and employees to assist in the identification and proper use of personal fall protection equipment. The guide is on the Workers Compensation Board’s website at www.wcb.pe.ca Stewart encourages people to visit the website and to contact WCB’s Occupational Health and Safety division for more information at 368-5697.

The Hon. Jim Lee, Chair of Workers Compensation Board, said “it is essential that we continue to promote health safety awareness and education on Prince Edward Island. By sustaining our focus on health and safety and by working together, we will create a workplace where all accidents are preventable.”

For more information contact Mark Barrett:

Tel: (902) 894-0362
Email: mabarrett@wcb.pe.ca