Construction companies lead with innovative safety programs to protect workers

Ontario Construction News staff writer

As Ontario’s construction sector strives to reduce accidents and fatalities, leading companies are setting a high bar with comprehensive safety programs. From mental health initiatives to advanced technology and rigorous training, these industry leaders are prioritizing worker well-being and creating safer job sites. Here’s a look at the top safety programs implemented by some of the province’s biggest construction firms.

Here are some of the construction companies leading the way in safety programs

EllisDon

• Program: Safety Leadership Program
• Focus: Cultivating safety leadership at all levels with supervisor training, daily safety audits, and a Safety Incentive Program.

PCL Constructors

• Program: Life-Saving Rules Program
• Focus: Ten critical rules covering fall protection, electrical safety, and heavy equipment use, plus a ‘Safety First’ initiative with pre-job meetings and leadership awards.

BAM Canada

• Program: Mental Health and Wellness Program
• Focus: Stress management, mental health resources, peer support networks, and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to address mental strain in construction workers.

BASF

• Program: Safety First Culture
• Focus: Hazard identification, risk assessments, and a “Stop Work Authority” policy that allows all employees to halt unsafe work.

GTA Construction Group

• Program: Safety Excellence Program
• Focus: Zero-incident culture, Worker Hazard Reporting System, and site-specific safety plans tailored to each project.

Graham Construction

• Program: Safe Work Certification (SWC)
• Focus: Specialized safety training in high-risk areas, incident reporting, and annual safety performance awards.

Kiewit

• Program: Zero Incident Philosophy
• Focus: Daily safety briefings, safety milestone rewards, and use of advanced technology like drones for site monitoring and hazard detection.