Achieve compliance on construction sites: forms, formwork, falsework and re-shoring
Learn about the forms, formwork, falsework and re-shoring requirements in the construction regulation made under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Overview
This section includes information about possible means to achieve compliance for the listed situations. It does not represent the exhaustive measures and procedures required by the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations related to forms, formwork, falsework and re-shoring.
This resource does not replace the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) and its regulations and should not be used as or considered legal advice. Health and safety inspectors apply and enforce these laws based on the facts they find in the workplace.
Program positions being discussed relate to sections 87 to 92 of O. Reg. 213/91.
Pre-pour inspections and modular formwork
Issue:
Does pre-designed, modular formwork require an inspection by an engineer before concrete placement?
Position:
Yes, but with exceptions. While modular, unitized formwork and falsework structures that are moved as single unit require a pre-pour inspection, there are types of modular formwork, like sonotubes or sidewalk/curb forms, basement footings, that do not require this.
Types of formwork and falsework that require a pre-pour inspection by an engineer (or designated competent worker) are listed in subsection 89(1).
Forms such as those constructed for sidewalks and curbs, basement footings or sonotubes are not captured by subsection 89(1) and their collapse would in no way endanger a worker, will not be subject to the requirements of inspection by an engineer or a competent worker designated by an engineer.
However, all formwork must meet the minimum requirements of section 87(1) and 87(2).
Formwork as a work platform
Issue:
Is the top of a wall form considered a work platform?
Position:
No, the top of a wall form is not ordinarily considered a work platform. Unless it is designed and engineered to meet the requirements of section 135 of O. Reg. 213/91, the top of a wall form would not be considered a work platform. Orders can be issued under section 135 if a worker is observed using the top of a wall form to work from.
Designation of a competent worker
Issue:
How does the engineer designate a competent worker to carry out the pre-pour inspection?
Position:
For the engineer to designate a competent worker to carry out the pre-pour inspections of the formwork, there must be an overall reporting mechanism between the engineer and the competent worker. The designated competent worker must be identified, in writing, by the engineer that the competent worker reports to. Inspectors may request a copy of this letter/designation.
“Competent worker”, in relation to specific work, means a worker who:
- is qualified because of knowledge, training and experience to perform the work
- is familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and with the provisions of the regulations that apply to the work
- has knowledge of all potential or actual danger to health or safety in the work