Safety checklist — Work near water
Cofferdams, work near water and drowning prevention. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
11 items- ✓
PPE worn: PFD (personal flotation device) if working < 2 m from waterCritical
ℹ️ CSTC art. 2.8.2 — PFD mandatory if drowning risk
- ✓
Life buoy with rope accessible within 15 m of work zone
- ✓
Worker trained in aquatic rescue present on site
ℹ️ CNESST recommendation — at least one trained rescuer
- ✓
Water level and current assessed — safe conditions confirmed
- ✓
Cofferdam or enclosure installed if required — pumping planned
- ✓
MELCCFP authorization obtained if working in waterway
ℹ️ Certificate of authorization mandatory under the EQA
- ✓
PFD worn at all times near water — never removed
- ✓
Water level monitored — sudden rise = immediate evacuation
- ✓
No worker alone near water — buddy system
- ✓
Electrical equipment protected from water — GFCI (ground fault breaker)
- ✓
Erosion and sediment control measures in place
After work
4 items- ✓
Cofferdam removed in controlled manner — no sudden release
- ✓
Banks restored per authorization certificate conditions
- ✓
No waste or materials left in watercourse
- ✓
PFDs inspected, dried and properly stored
More checklists — Cross-cutting Situations
Road work / Signage
Roadside work and construction site signage
15 checks
Cold weather work
Prevention of frostbite and hypothermia on site
15 checks
Asbestos / Decontamination
Asbestos removal and decontamination work
19 checks
Work at height
Fall protection, harness and lifeline
17 checks
Confined space
Entry and work in confined spaces
18 checks
Hot weather work
Prevention of heat stroke on site
14 checks