Excerpt from the OH&S Canada Magazine
The health and safety of construction workers will soon become more visible in Vaughn, a city located north of Toronto.
As of March of 2020, construction contractors working with the city will have to register for a “Certificate of Recognition” (COR) from the Infrastructure Health and Safety Association (IHSA) to be eligible for the procurement process.
In December, 2019, city council the program as a component of the city’s bidding process for construction contracts.
The IHSA is designated to certify contractors in Ontario’s construction industry who demonstrate their health and safety management system through this structured audit process.
Council’s support reflects a commitment to enhancing safer communities through supporting prevention and awareness, according to a news release.
Companies looking to work with the city will be required to provide a copy of a valid certificate or an equivalent Ontario Health and Safety certification in order to win the bid.
My opinion
The Ontario Occupational Health & Safety Act, (OHSA), section 23 states,
(1) “A constructor shall ensure, on a project undertaken by the constructor that,
(a) the measures and procedures prescribed by this Act and the regulations are carried out on the project;
(b) every employer and every worker performing work on the project complies with this Act and the regulations; and
(c) the health and safety of workers on the project is protected.”
Someone MUST have a CHSC or CRSP designation at the city level or the city has consulted one, and has properly advised the council to realize their responsibilities listed above. The council decided to ensure a safer workplace for the workers on a city of Vaughn-sponsored construction site. Good for them!
I hope other Jurisdictions follow suit.
HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259 We can also be reached at
Ensure your workplace is a safe place.
Remember – In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”
‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.
Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Advanced Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc.
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