Being recognized as one of Ontario's safest employers could soon pay off, literally.
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board will soon reward excellence in occupational health and safety with $140 million in rebates over three years.
Ontario Labour Minister and Lambton-Kent-Middlesex MPP Monte McNaughton. Photo from @MonteMcNaughton on Twitter.
"We know that good health and safety practices save lives," said Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton. "But they also save money. This program is a reflection of that fact."
A release from the Ontario government said similar programs in Europe and Japan have resulted in fewer workplace accidents.
Supporting Ontario's Safe Employers program is open to any employer in Ontario and was developed after feedback from labour groups, employers, and other stakeholders.
"This is a big step for Ontario's health and safety community as we continue to move forward in protecting workers," said Ron Kelusky, Ontario's Chief Prevention Officer who's office will lead the program. "Industry has long asked for rewards for employers who successfully promote health and safety in the workplace."
Companies recognized for their excellence in health and safety will be able to brand themselves as CPO-recognized.
"We have supported the concept of accreditation and recognizing good employers for the past ten years and are pleased that the current government is moving forward with this important health and safety initiative," said Ontario Council of Construction Associations President Ian Cunningham.
The Workplace Safety and Insurance Board is also launching Health and Safety Excellence, a new program to encourage employers that do not have a health and safety management system to develop one.
