This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses the Utility Work Protection Code (UWPC), a set of rules and regulations that play a crucial role in worker safety across Ontario, and features Sandy Morrison, Utility Work Protection Code coordinator at IHSA. The UWPC, owned by Hydro One and updated every five years, ensures that rules, tags, forms, and communication are consistent. The UWPC helps create an environment where hazards are reduced or eliminated by providing rules for workers working on or above 750 volts. It is based on the understanding that the safest way to work is to isolate an area and work around it using different permits and tags to create a safe work environment.

Sandy addresses the importance of training in the UWPC for crews working around high voltage. Training is only valid for 27 months and must be retaken after two years. This ongoing training process allows workers to learn new skills and address new questions or scenarios. IHSA offers four training courses in the UWPC: Overview, Core, Recertification, and Train the Trainer.

Sandy also discusses the UWPC’s significant changes in 2024, which include new code changes that match the Electrical Utility Safety Rules (EUSR), implementation of a signature rule, an annual management review, creation of a new PC3 tag, and more.

Free Resources

Utility Work Protection Code Overview

Electrical Utilities Safety Rules (EUSR)

Electrical Hazards

Electrical Safety Awareness (eLearning)

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