Pop-up Shade Canopies - Hazard Alert

Hazard Alert

Pop-up Shade Canopies - Many construction contractors are setting up temporary canopies on site to provide shaded rest areas for workers during warmer months.  The use of these canopies is a well-recognized heat illness prevention technique.  Even though these are lightweight and easy to use there are some precautions to be aware of:

• Follow manufacturer guidelines in setting up the canopies to ensure it is done completely and properly,

• Canopies should always be anchored to prevent them from being caught by the wind.  Anchor with weights to hold down the legs, ground stakes, tie down rope/cords or a combination those items (examples pictured right).

• Canopies should be taken down before strong storms or high winds as they are not rated for high winds.  They do not provide any protection from lightning strikes are not intended to be used as shelters from inclement weather.

• Canopies should not be exposed to any hot work, open flames or sparks unless they are rated for that purpose.

• Avoid setting these up near areas of equipment or vehicle traffic as they can create blind spots for operators moving around the project site.

• Take canopies down at the end of each shift or sooner if they are not needed. 

• Be aware of hand hazards, pinch points or potential sharp edges when setting up or taking down the canopy.

  *AI assistance was used to research this topic and provide some of the information.