How WSN advanced health and safety across Ontario industries
In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, Workplace Safety North (WSN) continued its mission to help make Ontario’s workplaces safer. As an independent, not-for-profit organization, WSN is one of four sector-based health and safety associations in the province. WSN also manages the Ontario Mine Rescue program, ensuring that mines across the province are ready for emergencies.
WSN is committed to proactive safety solutions and evidence-based practices. Over the past year, the organization introduced new training programs, expanded consulting services, and strengthened partnerships across the mining and forest products industries. The 2023-2024 Annual Report highlights the significant strides WSN made in protecting workers and promoting a culture of safety throughout Ontario.
2023-2024 Achievements
Over the past year, WSN has achieved several milestones in improving workplace safety across Ontario. Here are some of the key highlights:
Workplace consultations: WSN conducted 794 consultations with member firms, dedicating a total of 4,278 hours helping businesses enhance their safety practices. These consultations covered a range of services, from workplace safety audits to leadership development and psychological health support. By working closely with these firms, WSN has helped them identify and address safety concerns, leading to safer workplaces.
Training initiatives: WSN provided 9,039 participant training days in health and safety services and an additional 8,162 training days for mine rescue operations. This extensive training effort reflects the commitment to educating workers and employers on best practices for safety. Through these training programs, workers gain the knowledge and skills needed to prevent incidents and injuries on the job.
Industry collaboration: WSN works closely with industry advisory committees to stay in touch with the day-to-day realities of Ontario’s resource industries. In 2023-2024, six industry advisory committees met regularly to provide guidance on WSN programming and resources. These committees help ensure that WSN services are tailored to meet the specific needs of different industries.
Workplace Culture Maturity Awards: Recognizing that a strong safety culture leads to safer workplaces, WSN introduced the Workplace Culture Maturity Awards program in 2024. This program allows Ontario mining and forest products companies to use the WSN Climate Assessment and Audit Tool (CAAT) to improve their safety culture and qualify for recognition. By promoting a culture of safety, WSN is helping businesses reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Health and Safety Excellence program: As an approved provider of the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Health and Safety Excellence program, WSN helped 55 firms improve their safety programs, resulting in a total WSIB premium rebate of $744,376. This program rewards companies that take proactive steps to enhance workplace safety, providing both financial benefits and safer working environments.
Psychological health and safety: WSN continued its three-year workplace mental health project, offering in-person and online training programs for the mining and forestry sectors. The project has led to the development of six new courses and the distribution of over 1,781 mental health resources. By addressing the psychological well-being of workers, WSN is helping to create healthier and more productive workplaces.
New initiatives and resources
WSN has been proactive in launching new initiatives and resources to meet the evolving needs of Ontario’s industries:
Upgraded website: WSN launched a new, user-friendly website in 2024, making it easier for users to access training, book events, and manage their accounts. The website features simplified navigation, self-service options, and a clean, modern design, making it more accessible for everyone.
Hybrid safety training: Recognizing the need for flexible learning options, WSN introduced hybrid safety training that allows participants to join classes either in person or online. This approach ensures that workers across the province can receive expert guidance from safety professionals, regardless of their location.
New training programs: WSN expanded its training offerings to include new courses on workplace mental health, competent supervisor refresher training, and more. These programs are designed to address the specific needs of Ontario’s industries, helping businesses stay ahead of safety risks and ensure that their workers are well-trained and prepared.
Evidence-based research: WSN conducted six major research projects in 2023-2024, focusing on risk assessments and root cause analyses for various sectors, including underground mining and logging. The findings from these projects are used to develop targeted training and resources to address the highest risks in each industry, making workplaces safer and more efficient.
Ontario Mine Rescue
WSN continues to play a critical role in mine safety through its administration of the Ontario Mine Rescue program. In 2023-2024, the program conducted 946 training sessions and 23 mine rescue operations. These efforts ensure that mine workers across Ontario are prepared to respond to emergencies, with 916 volunteers actively trained in mine rescue. This training is crucial for saving lives and preventing disasters in the mining industry.
Community and volunteer engagement
WSN values community involvement and encourages its employees to volunteer their time for causes that matter to them. In 2023, WSN staff contributed 269 hours of employer-supported volunteer time, including fundraising activities for local charities. This commitment to giving back reflects the organization’s dedication to not just workplace safety, but also community well-being.
Looking forward
From launching a new Workplace Culture Maturity Awards program to introducing hybrid training models and upgrading digital resources, the efforts of WSN staff have helped empower businesses and workers alike to better prioritize safety and well-being.
As WSN reflects on its achievements over the past year, the organization remains committed to its mission of building safer, healthier, and stronger workplaces. With continued collaboration with industry partners and a focus on evidence-based approaches, WSN is well-positioned to make an even greater difference in the years to come.
For more information on WSN programs and resources, visit the new website or contact their team for personalized safety consultations.
Related
Annual General Meeting and Annual Report
Forest products health and safety services