Rob Dean

Modernizing our wildland fire program is a key to protecting Ontario. Ontario’s Forest Fires Prevention Act is being updated and renamed the Wildland Fire Management Act to modernize operations and keep Ontario safe by: • strengthening shared responsibility for wildland fire management • improving awareness of wildland fire risks • enforcing stricter rules and consequences for non-compliance • enhancing our preparedness and response Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gYDJtd8t

17

I recently completed a WHMIS 2015 webinar through SAFE Work Manitoba’s training portal (SkillsPass). This course strengthened my understanding of: 1. Workplace labels and hazard communication 2. WHMIS pictograms and hazard classification 3. Identifying risks associated with hazardous products 4. Using Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to determine hazards and control measures As a Health & Safety professional, staying current with regulatory requirements and practical hazard identification remains a key priority.

11

Ontario just launched a new online tool. It allows workers to voluntarily record hazardous substances they may have been exposed to at work. https://bit.ly/4bedjYn #HazardousSubstances #WorkplaceSafety #HealthAndSafety

1

The right to refuse unsafe work doesn’t start and end. It continues until the work is safe. When someone raises a safety concern, that right exists for a reason. People assess risk differently based on experience, exposure, and past incidents. That difference matters. In federally regulated workplaces, the Canada Labour Code Part II sets this out clearly. Workers have three rights: • The right to know • The right to participate • The right to refuse unsafe work When someone says, “I’m not comfortable. This isn’t safe,” you back them. Period. You follow the refusal process. You investigate with them. You address the hazard. You don’t stop until the work is safe. Training matters. IHSA’s Canada Labour Code Part II: Basics of Supervising (I’ve taken the federal course) makes expectations clear, especially for supervisors responsible for responding the right way. This applies to your coworkers, your friends, and yes, your family members too. Support isn’t just a word, and safety isn’t just a slogan. If you say safety matters, prove it when someone speaks up.

4

Good News for Ontario Workers! Ontario launches Canada's first occupational exposure registry to protect workers, as per MLITSD's February newsletter release. Using a secure digital portal workers can now self-track their exposure levels to hazardous substances. By filling out a questionnaire, workers may now report their exposure to a designated/hazardous substance, logging details of their exposure. For employers this would be a great opportunity to ensure hazard awareness and communication is maintained rigorously to create a transparent and safe work environment. At Arman and Associates Consulting, we ensure both sides of the table are kept in the loop as we promote our journey to safer workplaces. https://lnkd.in/ebNTQr27

2

Even though winter does not officially begin until December 21st, it is crucial for both employers and workers to prepare ahead of time for the challenges that winter conditions can bring. By addressing these issues proactively, workplaces can ensure that safety and health measures are firmly in place before the season's hazards materialize. As winter approaches, both outdoor and indoor workplaces face increased hazards, making proactive occupational safety and health measures of paramount importance. The harsh conditions brought on by winter weather, such as slippery roads and surfaces, strong winds, and frigid temperatures, pose significant dangers to workers. It is crucial for employers to take decisive action to prevent illnesses, injuries, or fatalities by effectively controlling these hazards in environments impacted by winter conditions. One of the primary concerns during winter is cold stress, a condition that arises when cold temperatures and increased wind speed (wind chill) cause the body to lose heat rapidly. This risk is prevalent for any workers exposed to cold environments, including those working in freezers, outdoor agriculture, and construction settings. Therefore, it is essential for outdoor work, particularly during severe winter weather, to be approached with proper preparation. While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) does not have a specific standard exclusively for cold environments, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 mandates that employers provide a workplace free from recognized hazards, including those related to winter weather. This general duty clause requires that employers protect workers from conditions that could cause death or serious physical harm (Section 5(a)(1) of the Act). To fulfill this obligation, employers must train workers on job-specific hazards and implement safety measures, such as engineering controls and safe work practices, to safeguard workers' health and safety. Beyond cold stress, other winter-related hazards also demand attention. Tasks such as driving in snow, removing snow from rooftops, and working near downed or damaged power lines can expose workers to additional dangers. Therefore, it is vital for employers to ensure that comprehensive training and preventive measures are in place, equipping workers with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate their duties safely during winter or in low-temperature environments. By prioritizing and implementing robust occupational safety and health protocols, employers can effectively mitigate the risks associated with winter weather, safeguarding the well-being of their workforce and fostering a safer workplace environment. Click on the link below to access a magazine article from OH&S on "How to Build a Resilient Safety Culture this Winter." #safety #OHandS #GeneralDutyClause #OSHA #safetyfirst https://lnkd.in/ePhMyHUR

3

As an Environmental Compliance Specialist at BrainCrete, I focus on helping contractors navigate the growing pressure for sustainable construction. From meeting Canada 's evolving carbon regulations to preparing documentation for LEED, BREEAM, and CSC certifications, our platform turns environmental obligations into competitive advantages. Compliance shouldn't feel like a burden it should be a smart step forward. That's what we're enabling at BrainCrete.

4

Criminal charges and fines stemming from an Ottawa workplace explosion and fire that killed six workers underline the high cost of unsafe work. Proper OHS training can help. WHSC provides effective training for workers, their reps, supervisors and employers. https://ow.ly/zCvT50X7Unq

5

3 Comments

Recovery is already happening on BC worksites — often quietly. Making it visible doesn’t lower standards, it strengthens crews, improves safety, and keeps skilled workers in the industry. Through BCCSA’s Peer Support Recovery Navigator (PSRN) training — supported by Builders Code — workers support workers: practical, peer-based help navigating stress, substance use, and recovery challenges. Learn more: https://bit.ly/46zvQvA #BCCSA #BuildersCode #ConstructionSafety #RecoveryInclusive #MentalHealthInConstruction #StrongerCrews #WorkplaceSafety

7

2 Comments

🛡️ Workplace Harassment in Nova Scotia: What’s Changing, and Why It Matters Nova Scotia’s new workplace harassment legislation is a powerful step forward one that reminds every employer and safety professional that psychological safety is just as critical as physical safety. Our workforce is changing rapidly. Thousands of newcomers have made Nova Scotia their home bringing talent, drive, and diversity to our job sites, offices, and industries. But with that change comes a shared responsibility: ➡️ To protect every worker from harassment, bullying, and discrimination. ➡️ To educate leaders on their new obligations under provincial legislation. ➡️ And to foster workplaces where every person no matter their background or first language feels valued, respected, and safe. With our free Safety Snapshot, we help employers understand what the new rules mean in practice. We’ll review your policies, culture, and communication practices to ensure your workplace is not only compliant, but truly inclusive. Because safety isn’t just about avoiding injury, I t’s about belonging. 📞 902-989-7333 🌐 Practical safety help from professionals who care.

5

The latest NCSO-NHSA Legislative Changes Webinar highlights major updates impacting workplaces across the province: 🔹 Stronger Penalties: Fines for OHSA violations now up to $2 million—Canada’s highest. 🔹 Naloxone Kits: Mandatory in high-risk workplaces, with clear guidelines and training available. 🔹 PPE Requirements: Employers must provide properly fitting PPE for all body types—no more one-size-fits-all. 🔹 Sanitation Standards: New rules for washroom cleanliness and menstrual product access on construction sites. 🔹 Telework & Virtual Safety: Updates on harassment, electronic postings, and virtual JHSC meetings. 🔹 Crane Safety: Enhanced regulations and inspection protocols. 🔹 Worker Trades Committees & CPO Powers: Expanded authority and oversight to improve safety culture. Stay informed and compliant! #WorkplaceSafety #OHSA #ConstructionSafety #PPE #Naloxone #OntarioLegislation #IHSA #NCSO #NHSA #WorkingForWorkers

31

1 Comment

🚦Coming July 2025: Canada-Wide Driving Law Overhaul – A New Era for Road and Bus Transit Safety! As safety professionals in transit and urban mobility, we’ve long known that transformative change often begins with updated legislation—and July 1, 2025, is no exception. Canada is implementing critical updates aimed at reducing road risk, saving lives, and elevating road safety across the country: 1️⃣ Distracted‑Driving Ban: Handheld Devices Off the Wheel • Complete prohibition on holding or tapping phones, tablets, smartwatches, or other devices while driving. • Fines start at $600 for first offences—with demerit points, licence suspensions, and mandatory education for repeat infractions. 2️⃣ School‑Zone Speed Limit: There is no federal change making school zones 30 km/h 24/7 Canada-wide. Speed limits remain under provincial and municipal control, and timing varies by jurisdiction. 3️⃣ Lower Blood‑Alcohol Limit: | Updated The federal criminal BAC limit remains 0.08%, while 0.05% triggers administrative penalties (like suspensions) in many provinces. Zero tolerance for novice and commercial drivers has long been in effect in most regions. 4️⃣ ADAS Required in New Vehicles | Updated • While many manufacturers are now including ADAS as standard, there is no federal mandate requiring ADAS in all new vehicles starting July 1, 2025. 🚌 What This Means for Bus Transit Professionals • Elevated on-board safety: With ADAS mandates, new buses arrive standard-equipped—supporting collision prevention and pedestrian protection. • Guaranteed safer routes: Lower zone speeds near schools and neighborhoods help protect stops and curbside activities. • Zero‑tolerance sobriety: For operators and support staff alike, the stricter BAC and device-use policies translate into safer fleet operations. • Enforcing policy, protecting teams: Clear legal backing empowers transit agencies to uphold internal standards around device use, impairment, and safe working practices. 🚀 Call to Action for Transit Leaders: • Train your teams: Keep all drivers and staff informed on device bans and BAC changes. • Engage your community: Public messaging on new school‑zone limits and transit‑adjacent safety zones can reinforce compliance. • Partner with regulators: Use these law changes to shape proactive transit safety policies with provincial authorities. As Health & Safety leaders in bus transit, this moment marks both a challenge and opportunity. We’re not just reacting to a new law—we’re embracing a powerful toolkit to prevent collisions, strengthen operator fitness, and safeguard the most vulnerable road users. Let’s lead the shift from compliance to a culture of safety-first transit. Proud to work alongside so many dedicated safety professionals who are ready to make the July rollout a monumental success. *Post Updated #RoadSafety #GOBusTransit #SafetyLeadership #ADAS #DistractedDriving #TransitSafety #PublicTransport #HealthAndSafety #Metrolinx

12

9 Comments

Mental health is not a "nice to have" anymore. It’s a business issue. Burnout, stress, and emotional fatigue are quietly draining teams, slowing down projects, and pushing top talent out the door. If your organisation's entire mental health strategy is “we have an EAP,” but no one feels safe using it, you're not solving the problem; you're ignoring it. Support isn’t about wellness slogans or free coffee. It’s about honest conversations, clear boundaries on work hours, and managers who know how to lead with empathy. If your people don’t feel safe being human at work, don’t expect them to give you their best. Mental wellness must be taken seriously through proactive programs, a strong care culture, and leadership that supports and listens. #MentalHealthAtWork #LeadershipMatters #BurnoutPrevention #WorkplaceWellness #PeopleFirst #TeamCulture #EmpathyInLeadership #PsychologicalSafety #WorkplaceHealth #LeadByExample

1

The National Indigenous Fire Safety Council has released a new report that highlights a critical public safety crisis: Indigenous people in Canada are five times more likely to die in a fire than the general population, a risk that climbs to ten times for those living on reserve. Data from the National Incident Reporting System shows that residential structure fires account for 88% of all fire-related deaths, yet less than 10% of these homes were recorded as having a functioning smoke alarm. The report provides an evidence-based roadmap for closing this gap by prioritizing smoke alarm installation, expanding door-to-door safety education, and addressing significant resource and training gaps within local fire departments. These findings serve as a call to action, demonstrating that through coordinated and community-led efforts, these disproportionate fire risks are preventable. Access the full report here: https://lnkd.in/e8tJ4MKC

23

2 Comments

Workplace safety accountability in Canada continues to evolve. Recent cases highlight how regulators and courts are increasingly willing to pursue serious penalties when safety systems fail. A good opinion piece that I found on Canadian Occupational Safety. #WorkplaceSafety #SafetyLeadership https://lnkd.in/erbgk8_6

2

Workplace injuries aren't just "lapses in judgment," they're "design flaws," says Don Patten of WSPS. Ontario's material handling campaign, with MLITSD, focuses on systemic prevention to eliminate risks in retail, warehousing, and manufacturing. Learn why systems, not just checklists, are key to safety. https://hubs.la/Q03wPfxq0 #WorkplaceHealth #SafetyCulture #SafetyFirst #WorkplaceSafety

1

🦺 PPE: Your Last Line of Defence Too often I walk onto a site and see it — hard hats past their expiry date, fogged-up safety glasses shoved in pockets, gloves worn down to threads. PPE isn’t just “stuff we hand out.” It’s the final layer of protection between workers and serious injury. That’s why we put together a new article: “Building a PPE Management Program in Ontario”. In it, we cover: ✅ How Ontario’s OHSA and regulations shape your PPE responsibilities ✅ Practical steps to move from “hand-out-when-needed” to a structured program ✅ Free resources from IHSA and WSIB you can use today ✅ Real-world advice from years of walking Ontario worksites If your company is pursuing COR® certification or simply wants to strengthen safety culture, a solid PPE management program is essential. 👉 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/gjzFXnbR Because at the end of the day, PPE is simple. But how you manage it shows whether your workplace takes safety seriously. And believe me—workers and inspectors notice the difference. #WorkplaceSafety #PPE #OntarioSafety #COR #HealthAndSafety #Leadership

5

2 Comments