Industry experts were invited to perform comprehensive inspections and tests of tools, personal protective and critical safety equipment belonging to outdoor workers. The latter half of the day was spent practising rescue techniques, such as pole rescue, bucket evacuation and underground cable chamber rescue. Health and wellness experts were also on site to answer questions.

“Prevention is key when it comes to reducing the chances of work -related injury,” says Dave Stephens, safety and trades training supervisor. “This week is intended to remind our employees their safety comes first.”

Among the tools inspected and tested were grounds. Inspectors checked for rips and tears, and verified the current matched safety standards. Fall-arrest equipment was also inspected for tears along straps and belts, and checked for bent or broken hooks.

First Aid kit inspectors looked for out-of-date products and non-essential items. Some of the most common risks found include traces of blood, broken objects and rust. Contents were also inspected for mould, which can be caused by humidity.

Amp guns, gas battery hydraulic-powered tools, worker protection tags and dielectric sticks were also inspected and tested. In addition, compliance kits were verified to ensure the regulation manuals and reference guides were accurate and complete.

Employees then practised their emergency skills during bucket truck rescue and evacuation exercises, which challenged their rappelling skills. Pole climbing and pole-top rescue skills were also tested. Underground cable jointers also practised their rescue techniques in underground chambers. All of the completed inspections and exercises were based on the guiding legislative requirements, in accordance with Hydro Ottawa’s procedures and industry best practices.

New to the event this year was a “Wellness at Work” campaign, promoting physical and mental wellness as key to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace. Vendors including orthotic, chiropractic, nutrition and fitness experts were onsite with the Canadian Mental Health Association and employee assistance program reps, as well as nurses who provide health checks for employees.

Hydro Ottawa staff have come to look forward to this annual event. It allows them to keep their tools and skills up to date, contributing to peace of mind that a solid foundation is in place for their daily assignments. The company, meantime, benefits through the efficiency of a consolidated day-long event that ensures compliance with industry regulations and reassures that best practices are being followed for keeping employees safe.
Tool and Equipment Inspection Week was held over four days at five Hydro Ottawa-owned work centres across the city. The annual event is planned and managed by Hydro Ottawa’s Human Resources department.



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