First of 3 targeted blitzes scheduled for 2011
Alberta is targeting worksites where forklifts and other powered mobile equipment are used in a workplace safety blitz.
“I have instructed my officers to inspect sites throughout Alberta where forklifts and similar equipment are typically used,” said Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of Employment and Immigration, responsible for Occupational Health and Safety. “If necessary, they will issue stop-use orders on the machinery or even stop-work orders for the site. There is no excuse for worker health and safety to be at risk.”
The inspections are set to begin Feb. 22 and will continue for several weeks, the province said. Officers will focus on hazards related to such things as worker training, competency and supervision, safe operation of equipment as well as maintenance and modification of equipment.
Employers and workers can access an informative document Forklift Health and Safety Best Practices Guideline, by visiting employment.alberta.ca/safeandfair. This is the first of three targeted inspection campaigns planned for 2011. Inspections focusing on young workers and residential construction will follow.
