Ontario has launched a province-wide safety blitz of construction projects at commercial and industrial facilities to ensure they have the proper protections in place to keep workers safe.
In January, Ministry of Labour inspectors are inspecting a range of workplaces across Ontario that are undergoing major renovations, repairs or additions.
The inspectors are focused on making sure:
- Workers are protected from airborne substances, hazardous materials and extreme noise levels.
- Workers are protected when equipment and hazardous materials are stored and moved.
- Personal protective equipment is available and that workers are trained on its use.
- Emergency contingency plans are in place and communicated to workers and others at the workplace.
The blitz is part of the province’s Safe at Work Ontario strategy.
Labour Minister Yasir Naqvi said building a culture of health and safety is good for workers and the economy.
“These safety blitzes are a key part of our constant focus on protecting all workers in the workplace and making sure they go home to their families at the end of the day.”
Chief Prevention Officer George Gritziotis said workers can be exposed to construction hazards created by high noise levels, construction traffic and dangerous substances such as asbestos, lead and silica.
“We’re working to improve the health and safety of workers in Ontario,” he said.
Since 2008, ministry inspectors have conducted 59 inspection blitzes and 345,000 field visits.