On May 30th 4S Consulting hosted a Safety Awareness Seminar at the Toronto Hilton North in Markham. The event was attended by over 190 people representing a cross section of industry and safety and training providers. The agenda focused on what is happening with Health and Safety in Ontario and included opening remarks from Ontario’s Chief Prevention Officer Dr. Joel Moody, an update on the WSIB’s Strategic Plan by Mr. Rod Cook Vice President of Health and Safety Services, a presentation by Enzo Garritano President and CEO of Infrastructure Health and Safety and a panel discussion on the implementation of Bill 79 the Working for Workers Act 2024.
In addition to the above the President and founder of 4S Consulting provided a glimpse into the future of the power of emerging OHS Technology that has been developed by 4S and how AI will change and support the traditional health and safety system.
Throughout the 3-hour seminar 4S polled the audience with 6 questions. Participants used their smart phones to connect to a QR code enabling them to respond to each question. The results were both interesting and informative regarding questions concerning compliance and interest in the legislative direction the province has been taking.
Training staff and implementing OHS legislation were the two major challenges faced by attendees polling 31.37% and 29.41% respectively. Keeping up with new and changing legislation came 3rd at 27.45%. Lastly, interpreting how legislation impacts their business was a concern expressed by 11.76% of employers in the room.
92% of attendees felt the current OHS legislation is effective with 33% indicating the legislation worked for their industry. 35% and 24% felt that while the legislation was effective there were challenges relating to implementation and ensuring staff compliance. Fewer than 8% felt the legislation was not effective.
100% of employers expressed a strong interest in working with government. 35.29% wanted to work with government to develop tools to assist with compliance; 31.37% wanted to work collaboratively with government to determine what specific legislation is needed to help with the challenges within their respective business or industry; 29.41% of business wanted assistance to better understand and interpret the legislation; and 3.92% of business wanted assistance in addressing hiring shortages of qualified workers.
50.98% of attendees wanted to be compliant with all OHS legislation; 31.37% felt that implementing an OHS system would add to their brand and reputation; 13.73% noted that a robust OHS system was required by their clients in order to do business; and 4% indicated they had an incident that compelled them to implement better OHS practices or had an interaction with enforcement that required them to respond.
56.86% of attendees wanted support with training and upskilling staff; 15.69% wanted support to ensure compliance with the legislation; 19% wanted assistance in finding suitable employees; and 7.84% identified more support is needed to address mental health in the workplace.
The majority, 62.75% of business indicated a lack of knowledge by new comers on work instruction and safety related issues; 19.61% highlighted an interest in hiring newcomers 13.73% highlighted language barriers; and 3.92% noted that support services such as transportation made it difficult for both new comers and employers.
Businesses and the industry appear to have a strong interest in compliance and support legislation that ensures a stronger OHS system. There are challenges as expected however employers are aware and can articulate the supports needed to help them comply. The most positive statements were in response to question 4 “Why are you implementing a Safety Program?” with 82% highlighting compliance and brand recognition and 14% citing a requirement by clients. This shows the province is heading in the right direction.
