Safety & Professionalism


Paid contract work for new and renovated buildings implies a professional responsibility, for planners, designers and installers on a job. You must know your obligations, communicating expectations and problems clearly with clients and your fellow workers.

These professional obligations include the following:

  1. Have a plan for your work, from start to finish, and stick to the plan.
  2. Identify and be aware of hazardous materials on the job site;
  3. Install insulation to the standards of the NBC and local codes/by-laws;
  4. Follow the construction safety laws of the area/location of the job site. Ensure proper training for yourself and your employees;
  5. Inform clients in writing of any potential issues that could arise from installing insulation or creating a tighter envelope;
  6. Know the risks you may be creating by altering the building envelope;
  7. Ensure that all tools, equipment and machinery are in good working order.
  8. If combustion spillage susceptible appliances are present, inform the client of the risks in writing so they can contact the appropriate professionals to mitigate the risk;
  9. Moisture is the enemy of your work. Ensure that materials and methods are used to prevent the entry of water and moisture into building envelope assemblies.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

Every Province and Territory has its own "Occupational Health and Safety Act" that provides the legal basis for health and safety regulations on work sites and shops.

  • Employers are legally required to take every precaution reasonable to protect workers, including identifying and controlling hazards, providing necessary equipment and training, and ensuring a safe work environment.
  • Workers have the right to refuse unsafe work, to participate in health and safety discussions, and to receive information and training. They also have a responsibility to wear PPE, use equipment safely, and report hazards.