Working in Backcountry or Remote Areas in Algonquin Provincial Park
January 17, 2003
Application and Scope
This policy applies to all Algonquin Park staff, volunteers, and service
contractors. Other branches of the Ministry of Natural Resources are
encouraged to follow this policy when working in Algonquin Park.
This policy does not apply to contractors working for cottage or commercial
leaseholders. However, we do encourage responsible and safe travel by all
people working in Algonquin Park. To this end, a TIPS sheet will be
prepared and issued with travel authorizations for contractors that maintain
cottages/lodges/camps.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure Park wide guidelines for working in
the backcountry and remote areas. This policy will protect workers and
addresses the requirements of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
Working On Ice
This policy does not replace the Ministry of Natural Resources Working on
Ice Policy (WOIP). If any provision of this policy is in conflict with the
WOIP policy, the WOIP applies.
When Does the Policy Apply—Why?
The policy applies from December 15th to April 1st every year. Managers
may extend the application if they deem appropriate.
This policy is intended to protect workers during cold weather conditions.
During peak park operating periods, there are more staff and extended radio
coverage for assistance and communications.
In Algonquin Park peak snowfall occurs during this period. Snow and ice
complicates travel on roads and obscures hazards. Cold weather increases
the risk of exposure and hypothermia.
Normal Working Hours
Normal winter working hours are 8:15 am to 4:15 pm. Workers can extend
these hours but only with approval of a Manager. Managers will ensure that
a communications system is in place to ensure that workers return safely
from backcountry and remote areas.
Definition of Remote and Back Country Areas
A backcountry/remote area is anywhere in the Park greater than 1 km
distance from the Highway 60 corridor. Managers may extend the
application of the policy where deemed appropriate.
The Rules
The following rules apply and constitute the minimum requirements.
--appropriate all weather clothing including appropriate cold weather
footwear must be worn
--a survival pack must be taken and shall include a basic first aid kit, a pair
of mitts, a toque, a pair of socks, flashlight, high energy food, knife,
waterproof container with matches, candle, space age warmth blanket,
compass, whistle, and canoe route map of Algonquin Park along with a
portable radio and satellite phone
--the survival pack is to be worn by the worker if he/she leave the vehicle
Communications
--workers must check out, and check in with the appropriate park office
--workers must use the sign out boards to indicate where they are working
--managers may instruct workers to check out and check in with the
Provincial Co-ordination Centre (PCC)
--workers must carry a hand held radio capable of radio/telephone
communications and a satellite phone. Managers may also require the use of
a personal locator beacon depending upon the location of work, and quality
of communications available ie. black spots where radio communications are
known to be a problem
Working in Pairs
In backcountry and remote areas workers will work in pairs. A Manager may
relax this requirement if an assessment of the work performed indicates that
it is low risk, and off road travel is limited. For areas where there are active
forestry operations, the working in pairs requirement may be relaxed
provided that the worker communicates with the forestry workers in the
area.
Exceptions
Each worker is required to have a survival pack if working in backcountry
and remote areas during the winter operating season (as set out in this
policy). Where two workers are traveling together, only one set of
communications equipment is required.
Exemptions to this policy may only be approved by a Manager.