Steep Slope & Hazardous Terrain Operations - on foot
A slope is ground that has a gradient of 15% (26.8 degrees) or greater.
A steep slope is ground that has a gradient of 30% (57.7 degrees) or greater.
Hazardous Terrain describes work zones containing:
|
Streams
/ Rivers |
Bodies
of water |
Algae
or moss-covered rocks |
Loose
gravel / scree covered rocks |
|
Danger
trees |
Rock
/ Earthfall potential |
Slash
and logging debris |
Brush
that limits visibility |
|
Giant
Hogweed etc. |
Trail
steps or ladders |
Flash
flood / storm runoff areas |
Hidden
or sink holes |
Work on steep terrain general
· A site condition assessment “job walk” should take place prior to beginning work
· Areas of risk to be noted on Field Hazard Assessment & communicated at pre-job safety tailgate meeting
· Workers to wear minimum 8” lace up CSA type safety footwear with good tread
· Avoid travelling across slopes – move straight up and down if possible
· When clearing or brushing, work up a slope
· Areas hazards are flagged or delineated
· Work on steep terrain general:
· Avoid working directly above or below others while on steep slope
· Access routes to top and bottom of steep slopes should be clearly marked or defined
· Only essential personnel and equipment need be present on slopes & hazardous terrain
· Utilize fall restraint equipment – rope grabs and safety lines can be used on steep slopes to control fall risks