The United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC), Local 579, is demanding safe workplaces throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The UBC has been providing scaffolding training to its membership for the past 30 years. This training consists of a 17-week program followed by an apprenticeship program. When apprentices work 4,000 hours in the field, they are eligible to write their Journeyperson exam that consists of a practical and theory component.

The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Local 203, is offering a three (3) day scaffolding course for their membership to erect and dismantle scaffolding on the jobsite. The knowledge of safe scaffolding cannot be taught in three days. We all have an obligation to keep workers safe on the jobsite. If a worker or employer fails to demonstrate due diligence in the event of a critical injury or fatality regarding an unsafe scaffold, they can be found criminally responsible for their actions.

The UBC is urging employers and the labour movement to support safe scaffolding practices in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. One injury or death related to unsafe scaffolding is one too many.

Sincerely,

 

Ivan Gedge
Regional Manager, Newfoundland and Labrador
President, UBC, Local 579
Atlantic Canada Regional Council of Carpenters, Millwrights and Allied Workers