Five Work Site Essentials for Construction in Canada
You’ve spent time researching, met the employer, aced the interview and got a start date. There’s only one thing left to do: get on the work site and do the work, right? Hold on — there’s one more checklist that comes with your first day on the job.
Stepping on to site ground is another opportunity to impress employers and coworkers. Take the time to understand expectations and conditions to ensure you’re over-prepared. This checklist can help:
- Hard hat
Bring it. Wear it. You don’t have a choice.
- Work boots “A worker in the construction industry, or any other similar working environment where there is risk of toe injury, should wear safety footwear with CSA Grade 1 toe protection.”
Some provinces have a higher annual rainfall so conditions can be wet and muddy. Your boots will protect you from more than heavy objects, they will be essential for keeping the water and mud out!
For WorkSafeBC’s Footwear Guideline, including a description of Grade 1 toe protection, protective sole plates and specific trade footwear expectations, click here.
- Rain jacket / heavy winter jacket / Safety Vest You’ve heard about the Canada’s weather so we won’t repeat it, but if you’re working outdoors, you’ll be thankful for a rain jacket. Trust us. Even if it’s not raining in the morning or the forecast predicts clear skies, weather can change quickly so it’s best to have the jacket on hand.
For other parts of Canada, including the Interior and Northern areas, a heavy winter jacket is necessary during the colder winter months. You may even consider appropriate thermal-lined pants if your occupation allows for it.
Safety vests are required on site.
- Gloves The construction site is a work in progress – literally. There are pieces to move and projects to finish. Your job may not require gloves at all times, but you could need them. Be safe and take the time to buy them, bring them and use them when necessary.
- Packed lunch Sounds simple, but it’s necessary.
Until you’re familiar with the site’s work day structure including break times and lunch routines, don’t count on having time to search for a place to eat. Stick with the packed lunch and follow your supervisor/team’s lead.
