New Rules to Prevent Falls:

Quebec Strengthens Work at Height Safety on Construction Sites With Decree 63-2025

The Government of Quebec recently took a significant step by adopting Decree 63-2025, introducing changes to the Safety Code for Construction Work. This regulatory change aims to strengthen fall prevention measures and improve rescue protocols at height, sending a clear signal of the government’s commitment to enhancing safety on construction sites.

Why are these changes necessary?

The issue of falls from height is at the heart of safety concerns in the construction industry, and for good reason. According to the CNESST, in 2017, 10 workers died because of falls, representing 16.1% of deaths in this sector. Although efforts have been made to reduce these risks, significant challenges remain.

Decree 63-2025 aims to address certain weaknesses in the current regulations, focusing on prevention, equipment, and training to minimize these tragic incidents.

With this change, Quebec is not only addressing an immediate safety need but also making a proactive decision to ensure the protection of workers. These adjustments provide greater clarity, improve risk management, and emphasize faster rescue protocols.

What are the main changes?

Clarifying definitions

For example, the terms "fragile surface" and "fall arrest connection" are defined more strictly, allowing for a better understanding of the risks and obligations associated with these situations.

Stronger requirements for guardrails

The requirements for the installation and use of guardrails are stricter. These protective devices must be installed in accordance with the new safety requirements.

Stronger standards for safety nets

Safety nets, which play a crucial role in fall prevention, must meet strict resistance and dimension requirements. This improvement aims to ensure that safety nets can support heavier loads and provide optimal protection.

Prioritizing prevention

A clear order of protective measures must be adopted. Prevention should be the first step, prioritizing the elimination of the risk whenever possible. If this is not possible, other measures should be taken, such as safety nets, harnesses, or guardrails.

Quick and effective rescue

Emphasis is placed on the importance of rapid intervention in the event of a fall. Strict time limits for the removal of a worker in a fall situation are imposed. This must be done within a maximum of 15 minutes, which relies on the development of detailed rescue procedures that must be regularly updated, along with the training of rescue teams.

Updated rescue equipment

Rope rescue equipment has been revised. Stricter standards regarding their quality, safety, and effectiveness have been imposed.

It is important to comply by reviewing your safety procedures and policies, training your employees on the new practices, checking the compliance of your equipment, and implementing an effective rescue plan.

Follow our specialized theoretical and practical training for work and rescue at height, covering the new regulations and best practices. Then, also check out our Fall Protection Catalogue for all your height related worksite needs!

Source: The Official Gazette of Quebec, January 23rd 2025, Decree 63-2025 (French only)

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Essential Rescue and Recovery Equipment

3M™ DBI-SALA® Rollgliss™ R550 Rescue & Descent Device
SPI Code: CDI112
Manufacturer Code: 3327100

Smooth, controlled descent thanks to a bidirectional system that allows uninterrupted, successive rescues.
Durable 9.5 mm Kernmantle rope, ideal for demanding environments such as construction, heavy industry, or wind energy.
Complies with ANSI, CSA, and OSHA standards, ensuring high-level safety for emergency high-angle operations.

3M™ DBI-SALA Rollgliss Rescue Positioning Device, 4:1 Ratio
SPI Code: CDI018
Manufacturer Code: 3602050

Designed for work positioning, with side D-rings providing optimal stability during tasks at height.
Enhanced comfort with adjustable straps that fit various body types and reduce fatigue.
Versatile and safe, ideal for tasks requiring precise positioning without compromising mobility.

3M™ DBI-SALA® RollGliss Rescue and Descent Device, 50 Feet
SPI Code: LH-3325050
Manufacturer Code: 3325050

Same performance as the 100 ft version, in a compact format for quick interventions.
Immediate deployment includes rope, anchor strap, and carrying bag.
Ideal for industrial environments, confined platforms, and hard-to-reach areas.

Petzl JAG System 4:1 Compact Rescue Hauling System
SPI Code: P44-2
Manufacturer Code: P044AA01

Pre-assembled haul system with a 4:1 mechanical advantage for easy victim lifting.
Compact and lightweight, ideal for quick interventions in confined spaces.
Durable components, including sealed ball-bearing pulleys and auto-locking carabiners.

3M™ DBI-SALA® Y-Lanyard for Rescue & Vertical Retrieval
SPI Code: CCO058
Manufacturer Code: 1231460

Double connection to ensure a constant connection to two anchor points during movement.
Integrated spreader to prevent tangling and improve fluidity of movement.
Sturdy, wide-opening hooks designed for a variety of rescue anchorages.

Dynamic™ Confined Space Rescue Spreader Bar
SPI Code: CTR005
Manufacturer Code: FP4017B

Effective support for vertical evacuation of a worker in a seated position.
Quick and easy to use, especially in confined spaces or emergency situations.
Even weight distribution, ensuring optimal comfort during extraction.