The Benefits of a Comprehensive Occupational Health and Safety OHS Program for Your Business

Understanding Ontario’s Business Landscape

To fully grasp the importance of workplace safety, let’s examine the composition of Ontario’s businesses:

Business Size	Number of Employees	Percentage of Business
Small Business	1 to 19	86.7%
Medium Business	20 to 49	8.4%
Medium Enterprise	50 to 99	2.8%
Large Business	100 to 499	1.9%
Large Enterprise	500+	0.2%

Key Insight: Small businesses form the backbone of Ontario’s economy, but they are also at higher risk of non-compliance and workplace incidents without proper safety measures.

Key Requirements Under OHSA

Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) outlines specific responsibilities for employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure safe workplaces. Below are some of the core duties:

Duties of Employers: Employers have a duty to:

• Provide and maintain equipment, protective devices, and safety measures.
• Instruct, inform, and supervise workers to protect their health and safety.
• Post health and safety policies and copies of the OHSA in the workplace.
• Ensure workers and supervisors receive hazard-specific and general awareness training.
• Inform workers about workplace hazards and proper handling of equipment and materials.
• Assist Joint Health and Safety Committees (JHSC) or Health and Safety Representatives in performing their functions.

For a full list of employer obligations, visit the Ontario Ministry of Labour website or Consult with 4S Consulting.

Understanding OHS obligations based on the size of your workforce is crucial. Below is a table summarizing the key requirements:

Basic Requirements by Workforce Size

Duties of Supervisors and Workers

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring:

• Workers follow safety procedures and wear protective gear.
• Any hazards or safety concerns are communicated to workers.
• Every reasonable precaution is taken to protect workers.

Workers must:

• Comply with the OHSA and follow workplace safety rules.
• Use or wear protective devices and report any defective equipment.
• Report any hazards or unsafe practices to their supervisor.

Tip: Employers must appoint “competent persons” as supervisors. A competent person is defined under the OHSA as someone with the knowledge, training, and experience to organize work safely and identify risks.

Special Considerations: Footwear, Toxic Substances, and Violence Policies

1. Footwear Requirements:

Employers cannot require workers to wear footwear with elevated heels unless necessary for safety or job performance (e.g., performers in the entertainment industry).

2. Workplace Violence and Harassment Policies:

Employers must implement policies to prevent and address workplace violence and harassment. Part III.0.I of the OHSA outlines detailed requirements.

3. Toxic and Hazardous Substances:

For workplaces handling hazardous substances, employers have additional duties under Part IV of the OHSA to ensure safe handling, storage, and training.

Making OHS Cost-Effective and Practical

OHS programs don’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Many training options, including online modules, virtual classes, and instructor-led courses, are either free or available at reasonable costs. Bundling training programs can also help businesses save money.

Developing and Implementing an Effective OHS Program

A written policy is just the start. To make it effective, employers need a tailored program that considers specific workplace hazards. Here are key program elements:

• Worker Training: Ensure new and current workers are trained (e.g., WHMIS, confined spaces, or job-specific safety procedures).
• Workplace Inspections: Conduct regular hazard assessments to prevent incidents.
• Incident Analysis: Review past incidents to prevent future occurrences.
• Health and Safety Budget: Allocate resources for training, equipment, and policy implementation.
• Communication: Set up systems for workers to report concerns.
• Specialized Procedures: Include lockout/tagout, machine guarding, emergency protocols, material handling, and ventilation systems.

Suggestion: Many businesses benefit from partnering with an OHS expert or using a safety management system like 4SafeCom™ to manage training, inspections, and compliance more effectively.

Why Accurate Training Records Matter

Maintaining accurate training documentation is not just a best practice—it’s required by law. Under the OHSA, employers must:

• Keep detailed records of training completed by workers and supervisors.
• Provide proof of completion, such as certificates or signed acknowledgments, when requested.

A digital record-keeping system like 4SafeCom™  can help you track, organize, and maintain training records efficiently while ensuring they’re always audit-ready.

Structured Frameworks for Long-Term Success

Implementing structured frameworks like ISO 45001, COR, and WSIB’s Excellence Program ensures your business remains compliant and reduces workplace risks.

According to studies, businesses that adopt these frameworks see significant improvements in safety outcomes.

Comprehensive Compliance Checklist

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Conclusion: Let’s Build a Safer Workplace Together

Despite the challenges, implementing a comprehensive OHS program is achievable and rewarding. Partnering with 4S Consulting gives you access to tailored solutions, advanced technologies, and the expertise needed to create a safer, more compliant workplace.