Manufacturing · Factory · Workshop

OHS action plan for manufacturing CNESST-compliant

Factories, workshops, production lines, subcontractors: manufacturing carries Quebec's most severe machine and amputation risks. Here is the mandatory OHS plan for your site with fewer than 20 employees.

Top OHS risks in manufacturing

Machines and amputations

Presses, saws, conveyors, robots. Missing lockout/tagout during maintenance is one of the leading causes of serious injuries and deaths in Quebec.

Noise and vibration

Prolonged exposure to equipment noise causes occupational hearing loss. CNESST expects noise measurements and a hearing-protection program beyond 85 dBA.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)

Repetitive line work, manual handling, awkward postures — the top source of compensated injuries in the sector.

Chemical risks (WHMIS)

Solvents, cutting oils, dust, welding fumes. Safety data sheets (SDS) and WHMIS training are mandatory.

Your CNESST obligations (manufacturing < 20 employees)

  • Written OHS action plan, posted in the plant
  • Documented assessment of the 6 risk categories
  • Written lockout/tagout (energy control) program
  • Designated OHS liaison officer + training within the year
  • Up-to-date safety data sheets (WHMIS) + training
  • Harassment-prevention policy (Bill 42)

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Questionnaire tailored to manufacturing, auto-generated plan with a lockout section, CNESST PDF export — inspection-ready.

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FAQ — Manufacturing OHS

My workshop has 12 employees — is lockout mandatory?

Yes. Lockout is required whenever a worker services a machine where accidental start-up is dangerous, regardless of company size. It's one of the first things inspectors check.

Do I have to measure noise in my plant?

If noise approaches or exceeds 85 dBA over a shift, yes: CNESST expects an assessment, reduction measures, and hearing protection. Document it in your plan.

Do agency workers count toward my threshold of 20?

Workers under your supervision fall under your prevention obligations. When in doubt, treat them like your employees for the OHS plan.