Blog Post #283 – Insufficient Funding Is Biggest Barrier to Workplace Safety

Report from OHS Insider

A safety coordinator can have the best, most innovative safety programs in mind. But without the money to implement those programs, they may never see the light of day–and workplace safety may suffer as a result.

Lack of money seems to be a common problem for safety professionals. When we recently asked what the biggest barrier was to a safer workplace, you said:

– Insufficient funding (43%)
– Lack of leadership (34%)
– Lack of time (11%)
– Lack of training (5%).

Insufficient funding and lack of leadership are connected. After all, if your company’s senior management doesn’t believe that workplace safety is a priority and thus doesn’t lead the way on safety initiatives, they’re also unlikely to give the OHS program the money it needs to be fully effective.

My opinion,

So how do you make the business case for safety and convince senior management that investing in the OHS program will not only protect workers but also benefit the company financially?

The company needs to have the WSIB and MOL information concerning accidents and incidents in the workplace. The information is readily available and can show an employer that proper health and safety in the workplace does not have to be expensive but the lack of a H&S policy can be.

Training just has to meet the standards of the day, whether it is the ANSI standards in the US or CSA in Canada. It is incumbent on the employer to find out the facts and accept responsibility and work to protect the health and safety of their workforce.

Remember — In Ontario, “ALL Accidents are Preventable”

HRS Group Inc. has a great team that can help you with all your health and safety needs including ‘Due Diligence’ and ‘Standard Operating Procedures’. Contact Deborah toll free at 1-877-907-7744 or locally at 705-749-1259.

We can also be reached at 

‘Work’ and ‘Play’ safe.

Daniel L. Beal
CHSEP – Foundation Level
VP & Senior Trainer
HRS Group Inc