Top 10 Safety Mistakes — How to Avoid Them in Canada
Top 10 Safety Mistakes — How to Avoid Them (Canada)
1) Using the wrong product for the job
Example: light PVC cones used in windy outdoor lots. Result — they blow over or crack in cold weather. Choose the product type for its environment, not just appearance.
See How to Choose the Right Product for environment-based selection tips.
2) Ignoring bilingual labeling (EN/FR)
Canadian regulations — especially Québec and federal zones — require bilingual (English/French) messaging on most safety signage. Avoid fines and confusion with bilingual-ready boards.
3) Overstacking or crushing stored equipment
Stacking cones or ramps too high creates deformation and weakens joints. Store with space and ventilation.
4) Skipping reflective class verification
All reflective materials are not equal. Type I is low intensity, Type III/IV is mid-grade, and Type IX/XI is for highways. Many “bright” signs fade within one year if the wrong class is used.
5) Failing to anchor properly
Wheel stops, guards, and posts that aren’t anchored correctly shift or break, creating hazards. Use anchors rated for your substrate (asphalt vs concrete) and recheck after freeze-thaw cycles.
6) Using indoor materials outdoors
Warehouse-grade PVC or tape fades and cracks in UV and salt. Use UV-stabilized PE or PU for any outdoor worksite or parking lot.
7) Ignoring maintenance & cleaning
Dirty reflective faces lose up to 40% visibility at night. Regular cleaning extends both appearance and safety performance.
8) Poor site layout or unplanned flow
Random placement of cones or barriers causes driver confusion. Plan lanes, signs, and mirrors for clear direction and no blind spots.
9) Buying by price instead of durability
Cheap cones and posts cost more long-term. Durable materials with UV protection and replaceable parts often last 3–5× longer in Canadian conditions.
10) No inspection routine or replacement log
Even high-end gear fails if neglected. Build a quick checklist for damage, fading, or missing hardware every month.
Important Legal / Compliance Note
This guide summarizes field experience and good practice for Canadian worksites. It is not a legal document or warranty of compliance. For regulated projects, refer to provincial OH&S, Transport Canada, or CSA standards applicable to your site. In all cases, the specification or tender document takes precedence.
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The Biri Group is a supplier of building materials that specializes in the production and manufacture of road and traffic safety products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses.
At Biri Group, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions for road and traffic safety. Our portfolio includes a wide range of products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses. Our state-of-the-art production and manufacturing unit, Biri Industries, located in RAK, allows us to efficiently produce products to meet the demands of the market.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just our products. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers and partners and providing exceptional customer service. Our team of experts is always available to assist with any questions or concerns and provide guidance on selecting the right product for your needs.
At Biri Group, we are constantly striving to improve and offer better, stronger products. We take pride in our ability to adapt to the changing market and provide innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
Thank you for considering Biri Group for your traffic safety needs. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you and help make your roads safer.