Overview

• What: Requirements for safe application of shotcrete
• Who: Workers who work with or around shotcrete and their employers
• Why: To gather feedback on the proposed amendments
• How: Click on our feedback button to contact us
• Key topics: Shotcrete, concrete, backing, engineering, construction, road building, erosion control

Summary

WorkSafeBC is proposing changes to improve safety for workers doing shotcrete work. Shotcrete is applied at high pressure and the work can involve serious risks, including equipment failure, unstable shotcrete, and accidental hose whip. To fully address these risks, the proposed amendments introduce clearer and more detailed requirements.

These changes introduce new definitions to clarify key terms, roles, and equipment. They also make it clearer how existing concrete-related rules apply to shotcrete, helping reduce confusion about which requirements apply in different situations.

The proposed changes also add new requirements for shotcrete backing and strengthen expectations for engineering and planning. In two specific circumstances, employers would be required to prepare site-specific plans that are certified by a professional engineer and available at the worksite to guide safe work. Inspection and oversight requirements are also enhanced, with inspections required before work begins, including engineering inspections in some cases, along with qualified supervision during key activities. Employers would also be required to develop procedures for safe work and ensure workers are trained to follow them.

Feedback from workers and employers involved in shotcrete work will help ensure the proposed changes meet WorkSafeBC’s goal of improving worker safety.

How you can share your feedback

To learn more about these proposed changes, please review the detailed information package and click the feedback button. This consultation will close on July 24, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.

How your contributions make a difference

Your feedback will help shape new requirements to improve safety in shotcrete work. By sharing your input, you will help ensure the proposed changes are effectively address the risks associated with shotcrete operations.

Learn more

Please review the detailed information package.