Safety checklist — Steel structure erection
Erection of steel frames and metal beams. Based on Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
12 items- ✓
PPE worn: full harness, hard hat with chin strap, boots, gloves
- ✓
Erection plan and sequence reviewed
- ✓
Anchor points and lifelines installed by qualified person
- ✓
Slings and shackles inspected — rated capacity verified
- ✓
Lifting zone marked — no one under the load (CSTC 3.10.4 (4))
- ✓
Weather conditions checked — no high wind or ice
- ✓
Fall-rescue procedure: release within 15 min, trained rescuer on site (CSTC 2.9.5)Critical
ℹ️ CSTC 2.9.5–2.9.5.2 (Feb 2025): free a suspended worker within 15 min, prioritize a MEWP, trained rescuer present, drills every 6 months.
- ✓
Worker tied off 100% of the time at heightCritical
ℹ️ When a harness is used (2.9.2). 2.9.1: also no-height cases, 1.2 m on a vehicle, 1.5 m with a load, more than 3 m otherwise.
- ✓
Minimum temporary bolting per plan before crane release
- ✓
Pieces guided by tag line — never by hand under the load
- ✓
Constant communication with crane operator (radio or signal person)
- ✓
Temporary bracing installed progressively
After work
3 items- ✓
Final bolting completed and torque-verified
- ✓
Collective protections restored (guardrails, nets)
- ✓
Harnesses and lanyards inspected — stored under cover
15 verification items — use this checklist on-site with the app
Use on-site — freePDF reports, history and team management in the app
For information only — this is not legal advice. OK Sécurité is an independent company with no affiliation to the CNESST: we are not mandated, endorsed or certified by it. Completing a checklist here does not by itself establish your compliance — your exact obligations depend on your job site and your prevention program. Where there is any discrepancy, the official text published by Légis Québec or the CNESST prevails.
More checklists — Structure & Reinforcement
More safety checklists
Related official rule
Risks and prevention — Steel structure erection
Steel erection is one of the trades most at risk for fatal falls. CSTC 2.9.2 puts the harness after ground, travel restraint, and a net; 2.9.1 is not only “more than 3 m.” Lift plans must be prepared for each erection phase.
Coordination between crane operator, signaller, and ironworkers is vital. Steel members must be secured before sling release, per the lift plan and manufacturer. A 40 km/h wind cutoff is not written in the CSTC.
Welding and torch cutting at height create burn and fire risks below. A fire watch with an adequate extinguisher must be posted during hot work.
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