Life Saving Rules

March 13, 2026

POST has adopted Energy Safety Canada’s 10 Life Saving Rules, which are based on the global Life Saving Rules framework developed by the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers.

In the Canadian version, Fit for Duty was added to reflect the Canadian operating environment, recognizing the importance of addressing issues such as impairment and fatigue in our workplaces.

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What are the Life Saving Rules?

The Life Saving Rules identify critical actions that workers must take to protect themselves and others when performing higher-risk work.

Developed by Energy Safety Canada in collaboration with industry and Human Performance experts, the rules provide clear expectations for safe behaviours across worksites. Each rule is supported by a simple icon and clear actions that workers can follow every day.

The Life Saving Rules apply across the energy sector and help create a consistent approach to safety regardless of company, location, or job task.

The framework consists of 10 Life Saving Rules, focused on the activities most often associated with serious injuries and fatalities.

How are the Life Saving Rules incorporated into POST?

POST has adopted the Life Saving Rules to maintain consistency across the petroleum contracting industry, aligning with the oil companies and retailers that support the POST program.

The rules are integrated into the POST online orientation courses (Level 1 and Level 2). Within the course, each rule includes:

  • The rule and its core action

  • Additional considerations

  • Practical examples

  • Real-world case studies

This approach helps reinforce how the Life Saving Rules apply to everyday work in the field.

How should Life Saving Rules be used?

The Life Saving Rules are intended to support safe decision-making throughout the work process and can be incorporated into daily safety activities.

Toolbox Talks & Safety Meetings

  • Discuss incidents where a Life Saving Rule was not followed.

  • Identify which Life Saving Rules may apply to upcoming work.

Pre-Job Planning

  • Are any Life Saving Rules relevant to the work being performed?

  • What controls must be in place to follow the rule from start to finish?

  • Is all required equipment available and in good working condition?

Last-Minute Risk Assessment

  • Have all Life Saving Rule actions been completed?

  • Is the job proceeding as planned?

  • Are there any line-of-fire hazards or ignition sources that were not previously identified?

Post-Job Reviews

  • Were all Life Saving Rule actions followed?

  • What went well?

  • What could be improved next time?

Observations & Walkabouts

  • Is work being performed where a Life Saving Rule applies?

  • Are workers following the rule?

  • If yes — recognize and reinforce safe behaviour.

  • If no — intervene and correct the situation.

Intervention

Everyone has the authority and responsibility to stop work and intervene if a Life Saving Rule is not being followed or if unsafe conditions are observed. Proactive intervention may be the last opportunity to prevent a serious injury or fatality.