FieldNews
Subscribe
Compliance Glossary Term

Fixed Ladder

A permanently mounted ladder attached to a structure, vessel, or facility used to access elevated work areas. Subcontractors must ensure fixed ladders on their worksites meet provincial and federal safety standards before crews use them. Inspect for damage, proper cage guards, and fall arrest anchor points before starting elevated work.

Related Terms

TRO (Temporary Restraining Order)

Compliance

A court order that immediately halts a specific action, such as work stoppage disputes or lien enforcement, pending a full hearing. Subcontractors may face a TRO if a general contractor seeks to block liens or contract terminations. It is a short-term legal tool, typically lasting days, until a judge rules further.

Customs Broker

Compliance

A licensed intermediary who handles import and export paperwork for equipment and materials crossing international borders. Subcontractors moving tools or machinery into Canada or the U.S. often hire one to avoid costly delays. They ensure duties, tariffs, and compliance documents are filed correctly.

Hazard Orientation

Compliance

A mandatory site-specific safety briefing required before subcontractor crews begin work on a new location. It covers site-specific risks, emergency procedures, and restricted zones. Primes or operators typically deliver it, and subcontractors must document attendance for compliance.

Energy Control Procedure

Compliance

A documented, step-by-step plan for isolating hazardous energy before subcontractors perform maintenance or service work. It outlines lockout/tagout steps specific to each piece of equipment on site. Subcontractors are typically required to follow or develop their own procedure that meets the site owner's standards.

Working At Heights

Compliance

Any task performed at an elevation where a fall could cause injury, typically above 3 metres. Subcontractors must hold valid Working at Heights certification and comply with provincial OH&S regulations. Clients often require proof of training before allowing workers on site.

STCKY (Stuff That Can Kill You)

Compliance

Informal field term for high-consequence hazards requiring mandatory controls before work begins. For subcontractors, STCKY items typically appear on permit-to-work forms and site safety plans. Failing to identify and mitigate STCKY hazards can void your contract and expose your company to liability.

Stay sharp on field operations

Industry news and insights, delivered to your inbox.

Subscribe to FieldNews
A community project by Aimsio