Last Updated on November 27, 2025

Ontario Regulation 859 is the law that defines how window cleaning must be done safely in the province. It protects workers who clean windows on commercial buildings, high rise towers, condos, and industrial properties. It also places clear responsibilities on building owners and contractors so that every job follows proper safety procedures.

This regulation applies to all window cleaning work that involves working at height or using specialized equipment. Understanding these rules helps property managers, condo boards, and business owners stay compliant and keep workers safe.

What R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 859: WINDOW CLEANING Covers

The regulation outlines a full framework for safe window cleaning. It includes rules for equipment, training, weather conditions, fall protection, anchor points, and inspection requirements.

Key areas covered by the law

• Worker training and competency

• Approved safety belts and harness systems

• Lifelines, ropes, and rigging requirements

• Secure anchor point installation

• Scaffold and platform safety

• Prohibited practices and high risk conditions

• Daily equipment inspections

• Weather and wind restrictions

• Building owner responsibilities

These standards ensure that window cleaning is done professionally and safely across Ontario.

---

Worker Training and Safety Requirements

The regulation requires that every window cleaner is properly trained and able to use all required equipment safely. Workers must understand fall protection, rope systems, hoisting devices, rigging, and emergency procedures.

Training requirements include

• Safe use of safety belts and lifelines

• Knowledge of knots, rope care, and load limits

• Proper use of platform or scaffold systems

• Identifying hazards before starting work

• Emergency descent and rescue methods

Only workers who are fully trained can perform window cleaning on elevated structures.

---

Fall Protection and Equipment Standards

Ontario Regulation 859 sets clear rules for fall protection systems. This ensures workers have reliable gear while suspended on ropes, platforms, or scaffolds.

Equipment required by the regulation

• CSA approved safety belts or harnesses

• Independent lifelines secured to proper anchors

• Working ropes rated for safe load capacity

• Fall arrest systems with shock absorbing features

• Properly maintained chairs, bosun seats, or platforms

Faulty or damaged equipment cannot be used under any circumstance.

---

Rules for Ropes, Lifelines, and Anchors

Ropes and lifelines must meet strict strength and condition requirements. They must be securely fastened to permanent or temporary anchor points that can safely support the load.

Important rules include

• Ropes must be free of frays, burns, or wear

• Lifelines must be anchored independently from working ropes

• Building owners must provide safe and tested anchors

• Knots must not weaken the rope beyond allowable limits

• All systems must be inspected before each use

Anchor points are one of the building owner’s key legal responsibilities.

---

Scaffolds and Platforms

If scaffolds or powered platforms are used, they must be installed and operated according to safety standards. The regulation prohibits unsafe makeshift systems or unapproved equipment.

Scaffold safety rules

• Platforms must have proper guardrails

• Ropes and hoisting devices must be rated for load

• Workers must remain tied in at all times

• Equipment must be inspected daily

Improper use of scaffolds is one of the most common causes of window cleaning accidents, which is why these rules matter.

---

Weather Restrictions Under Ontario Regulation 859

Window cleaning cannot be performed during hazardous weather. High winds, heavy rain, ice, or lightning make elevated work unsafe.

Cleaning must stop when

• Wind levels exceed safe operating limits

• Ice forms on ledges, ropes, or platforms

• Rain reduces visibility or traction

• Storms or sudden gusts pose a hazard

These rules exist to prevent slips, falls, and rope movement caused by unpredictable weather.

---

Building Owner Responsibilities Under the Regulation

Many property owners do not realize they have legal obligations under Regulation 859. They must ensure that the structure is safe for window cleaning and that proper anchors or support systems are available.

Owners must provide

• Certified anchor points

• Safe access to the roof or balconies

• Structural information when needed

• Hazard identification at the building

• Maintenance of anchors and connection points

Hiring a reputable window cleaning company ensures these duties are handled properly.

Safety Training Requirements Under OHSA: When Workers Need Fall Protection Certification

Ontario Regulation 859 works together with the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA). While Reg. 859 outlines the equipment and procedures for window cleaning, OHSA requires workers to be trained in fall protection before they perform any work at height.

Workers who clean windows on high rise or low rise buildings must complete approved Working at Heights or fall protection training to legally perform elevated work. This training teaches safe use of harnesses, lifelines, anchors, rope systems, and rescue procedures.

Required OHSA training for window cleaners includes

• Working at Heights certification

• Fall arrest and fall restraint training

• Proper use of harnesses and lifelines

• Emergency procedures and rescue steps

• Safe setup and inspection of anchor systems

Property managers and building owners are responsible for hiring companies whose workers have valid certifications. This helps keep everyone safe and reduces liability during high rise window cleaning.

If you need OHSA approved Working at Heights Training or fall protection training for your staff, you can enroll through Achieve Safety, a trusted Health and Safety training provider in Ontario that offers certified courses for businesses and workers across the province.

---

Why These Rules Matter for Property Managers and Owners

Understanding Regulation 859 helps prevent liability issues. If a contractor works unsafely, the building owner can share responsibility for any incident. Choosing a professional, safety certified company protects everyone involved.

Benefits of compliance

• Reduces legal risk

• Protects workers

• Ensures safe access for future cleanings

• Improves building maintenance standards

• Demonstrates professionalism and care

NT Property Care follows all requirements outlined in Regulation 859 to keep every project safe and fully compliant.

---

 If your building needs professional window cleaning that follows Ontario Regulation 859, our team is ready to help. We work safely, follow all legal standards, and provide detailed care for commercial, residential, and high rise properties.

Book a trusted and compliant window cleaning service in Toronto with Northern Touch Property Care today.

What is Ontario Regulation 859?

It is the official safety law that governs window cleaning in Ontario, covering training, fall protection, equipment, anchors, weather limits, and worker safety.

Who is responsible for providing safe anchor points?

Building owners are legally responsible for ensuring anchor points comply with safety requirements.

Can window cleaning be done in windy or icy weather?

No. Regulation 859 requires work to stop during high winds, ice, storms, or any unsafe conditions.

Do all window cleaners need training under this law?

Yes. Only trained and competent workers are allowed to perform elevated window cleaning tasks.

How does Northern Touch ensure compliance?

Our technicians follow all regulated safety standards, perform daily inspections, and use approved equipment for every project.