A provision in occupational health and safety legislation requiring employers to protect workers from recognised hazards, even when no specific regulation exists. For subcontractors, this means you can be cited for unsafe conditions on site regardless of client-controlled environments. It applies to your workers whether you own the worksite or not.
General Duty Clause
Related Terms
Hazardous Energy Control
ComplianceA formal system for isolating and de-energising equipment before maintenance or repair work begins. For subcontractors, this typically means following a client's lockout/tagout (LOTO) programme on site. Non-compliance can result in work stoppages, contract termination, or serious injury.
Stop-Before-Strike
ComplianceA mandatory work pause requiring crews to verify no buried utilities or underground hazards exist before digging or drilling begins. Subcontractors are typically contractually responsible for completing all locates and documented checks before breaking ground. Failure to comply can void insurance coverage and expose your company to full liability for strikes.
Oilsands Emissions Framework
ComplianceA federal and provincial regulatory structure capping greenhouse gas emissions from oilsands operations. Subcontractors may face new equipment standards, fuel restrictions, or reporting requirements on-site. Clients may pass compliance costs or operational constraints down through contracts.
Competent Person
ComplianceA worker recognised by a client or regulator as having the training, experience, and authority to identify hazards and direct safe work. Subcontractors are often required to designate a Competent Person on-site before work begins. Failing to do so can result in work stoppages or lost contracts.
TRIIPP (Temperature-related Injury and Illness Prevention Plan)
ComplianceA documented safety plan addressing heat stress and cold exposure risks for workers in outdoor or industrial environments. Subcontractors may be required to submit a TRIIPP before mobilising crews to remote or extreme-climate worksites. It typically outlines monitoring procedures, acclimatisation schedules, and emergency response protocols.
Surface Use Plan
ComplianceA document outlining how land above a wellsite or pipeline corridor can be accessed and used during operations. Subcontractors must follow it to avoid disturbing restricted areas or triggering landowner disputes. Non-compliance can result in work stoppages or liability on your crew.
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