Gutter Safety in Ontario: Understanding Working at Heights Regulations

In Ontario, gutter installation and roof work aren't just routine home maintenance—they're regulated construction activities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). Any worker exposed to a potential fall of 3 metres (10 feet) or more must complete Chief Prevention Officer (CPO)-approved Working at Heights (WAH) training.

This directly applies to eavestrough installation, cleaning, and repair—tasks that may seem simple but carry serious risk when done at elevation.

In 2024, Ontario introduced updated safety standards to further enforce these requirements. According to legal insights from Hicks Morley, the changes focused on stricter documentation and clearer employer responsibilities, especially in residential projects.

At Bronson Johnson Seamless Eavestroughs, we don’t take shortcuts when it comes to safety. Our team is fully trained and certified in Working at Heights protocols, ensuring every gutter job in Ottawa meets or exceeds provincial safety regulations.
Heights training

Who Needs Working at Heights Training? (Contractors and Homeowners)

It’s a common misconception that only professional contractors need to worry about safety compliance. In reality, homeowners who oversee construction work—including gutter projects—may also fall under OHSA regulations.
OHSA defines a "constructor" as:
“A person who undertakes a project for an owner and includes an owner who undertakes all or part of a project by himself or by more than one employer.”

This means if you, as a homeowner:
  • Hire multiple trades (e.g., roofers, electricians, gutter installers)
  • Coordinate schedules or supervise the work
  • Don’t hire a licensed general contractor
 
You could be considered the constructor—and therefore legally responsible for ensuring that everyone working on your property is properly trained and compliant with safety standards.

What That Means for You

Without verified training, insurance, or proper fall protection, a single slip during gutter work can result in:
 
  • Serious injury or fatality
  • Legal and financial liability for the homeowner
  • Delays or cancellation of insurance claims

Bronson Johnson: Ottawa’s Safe, Certified Gutter Experts

When you choose Bronson Johnson Seamless Eavestroughs, you're hiring a team that:
 
  • Is certified in Working at Heights safety training
  • Carries full WSIB and liability insurance
  • Follows all 2024 OHSA safety updates
  • Has a proven track record for safety and quality in Ottawa
 
We take compliance seriously so you don’t have to worry about risk or liability. Whether it's a minor repair or a full gutter replacement, our experienced technicians deliver professional, code-compliant service from start to finish.

Request a Free Quote

Contact us to learn more about our eavestroughs services and request a free quote.

Once you hit submit, rest assured we have received your request! There’s no need to resend it — it’s in good hands. A member of our team will review your message and get back to you as soon as possible.
Thank you for reaching out to Bronson Johnson, we look forward to assisting you!