Safety
Safety and Emergency Management
Policies, forms, and practices.
Our Highest Priority
Safety for our volunteers, staff, contractors and skiers is a high priority for the the Canadian Birkebeiner Society (CBS).
Why Safety?: A happy volunteer is a returning volunteer. Happiness starts with a knowledge that you being well cared for and kept safe – even in the middle of the Alberta winter!
Volunteering and provincial OHS legislation: Since 2018, volunteers have been considered equivalent to employees under Alberta Occupational Health and Safety legislation. CBS meets and exceeds these legislative requirements through a formalized Safety and Environmental Management (SEM) plan.
SEM Manual: is the ‘safety bible’ for CBS. It is a “living” document and the later technical Sections and Appendices will be subject to continual additions and revisions approved by the Safety Committee. Volunteers are encouraged to at least puruse the manual and become familiar with sections relevant to their specific role.
Tailgates and Documentation. Beyond the manual, Volunteer Leaders will highlight and review relevant sections for their volunteers groups. Tailgate meetings prior to starting a volunteer shift provides reminders. Sign in and out provides confirmation that volunteers have received adequate training and have ended their volunteer activities for the Birkie.
Manuals and Forms
SEM Manual
The Safety and Environment Management Manual is central to CBS’ OHS program. Staff and Regular Volunteers are expected to read the CBS Manual and comply with its requirements. Occasional volunteers will have access to the CBS Manual and will be suitably briefed about OHS requirements when participating in CBS organized events.
Safety Program Orientation Form
This form should be used to record the participation of CBS Directors, Volunteer Leaders and Regular Volunteers in OHS orientation activities.
Tailgate Field Level Hazard Assessment Meeting Checklist
Used for on-site review of available FHA, SPIP and HS Manual material
Incident Report Form
CBS Safety & Environment Management Program – Incident Report Form.
CBS Formal Hazard Assessment Form
Used for commonly performed tasks and linked to approved SWPs/SJPs.
Safe Practice Implementation Protocols
CBS.SPIP.001.Travelling and working in CLBPRA
Ensures that all CBS workers are aware of the regulations and guidelines for working
as volunteers on the trails within the CLBPRA and provides for worker safety during operations
CBS.SPIP.002.Cold weather
CBS workers are aware of the hazards and means to mitigate the risks of cold weather.
CBS.SPIP.003.Brushing with hand pruner and saws
CBS workers using hand pruners and bush saws are aware of the hazards and the potential cause for an incident/accident. All workers shall ensure that they use proper techniques and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when bushing/pruning.
CBS.SPIP.004.Using Portable Propane Heaters
CBS workers using portable propane heaters are aware of the hazards involved and are familiar with the manufacturer’s instructions. All volunteers should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
CBS.SPIP.005.Using Portable Propane Stoves
This SPIP ensures that all CBS workers using portable propane heaters are aware of the hazards involved and are familiar with the manufacturer’s instructions. All volunteers should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
CBSCBS.SPIP.006.Using chainsaws on CLBPRA trails
CBS workers using chain saws are both certified as trained users and experienced chainsaw operators. All workers shall ensure that they use proper techniques and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating chainsaws.
CBS.SPIP.007.Using Gas-Powered Brush Cutters on CLBPRA trails
CBS workers using gas-powered brush cutters are registered users who: 1) Are familiar with the information in the Operators’ Manual; and 2) Have received some training from, and gained experience whilst working under the supervision of, more experienced and registered operators. All workers will use safe techniques and the required personal protective equipment (PPE) when operating brush cutters.
Role Specific Formal Hazard Assessments
Clothing Services
Course/Trail Blazers
Emergency Response, Medical and Course Safety
Festival Tent
Finish Line/Timing
Food Stations
The following might be relevant depending on the service provided:
FHAs, Continued
Registration
Stadium and Equipment
Moon and Barnebirkies
The following might be relevant depending on the service provided: