Supervising Safety: The Importance of Training for Managers in Canada
Did you know that in Canada, supervisors are legally responsible for the health and safety of their employees? However, a recent study found that only 32% of Canadian supervisors feel fully prepared to fulfill their health and safety responsibilities.
The Risks of Inadequate Training
Without proper training, supervisors may be unaware of their obligations under Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) laws.
This can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even deaths on the job.
In fact, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) reports that in 2019, 20% of workplace fatalities in Canada were caused by supervisors' failure to properly supervise their employees.
The Benefits of Training
Properly trained supervisors can help prevent accidents and injuries by identifying and addressing hazards in the workplace.
They can also improve productivity and morale by ensuring that employees feel safe and supported.
Additionally, training can also help supervisors fulfill their legal obligations and avoid costly fines and legal action.
Actionable Steps for Implementing Training
Assess your current training program: Are your supervisors receiving the training they need to fulfill their health and safety responsibilities?
Identify gaps in training: Determine which areas your supervisors need more training in, such as hazard identification, incident investigation, and emergency response.
Develop a training plan: Create a plan to address any identified gaps and ensure that all supervisors receive regular training.
Monitor and evaluate: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of your training program and make adjustments as necessary.
Real-life examples
A construction company in Toronto found that their supervisors were not properly trained in fall protection. After implementing a training program, the company saw a significant decrease in fall-related incidents.
A manufacturing plant in Montreal discovered that their supervisors were not properly trained in incident investigation. After implementing a training program, the company was able to identify and address hazards more effectively and improve overall safety.
Supervising safety is a crucial responsibility for managers in Canada. By providing proper training, supervisors can help prevent accidents and injuries, improve productivity, and fulfill their legal obligations. If you're looking to improve your company's health and safety training, consider our leadership for safety excellence course. Remember that investing in the safety of your employees is an investment in the well-being of your company. Don't wait for an incident to happen, take action today!
