Abstract

This study identified typical accident scenarios for carpenters, and developed recommendations concerning further research priorities and possible preventive measures.

A logical/semantic analysis of the inquest reports of the Ministry of Labour and of the CSST (Commission de la santé et de la sécurité du travail du Québec, Québec Occupational Health and Safety Commission) concerning 41 accidents suffered by 59 carpenters indicated that the Ministry of Labour’s inquiry method is more appropriate for the purposes of establishing the cause of accidents than that used by the CSST. The six accident scenarios identified provide a detailed description of the most hazardous work environments and conditions, namely falls, formworking, residential construction sites, and equipment-related problems. Recommendations were formulated regarding compliance with relevant laws and regulations, technical improvements, and worker and employer training.