Health and Safety Advisors

If you are in the construction business or working anywhere else where safety is a priority, chances are good that you’ve encountered the term Occupational Health and Safety Management System (OHSMS) before. But, just what is it? And why should you care?” Let’s break that down to basics.

In a nutshell, an OHSMS is a structured framework which helps businesses to manage the risks to safety in the workplace. It’s not just about ticking boxes or avoiding penalties (though that’s important too); it’s for providing a safer environment for everyone at the site. It is like handing out road maps showing how to handle hazards, control risks and making safety processes develop over time.

Why Do You Need an OHSMS?

In industries like construction, safety risks are everywhere. From working at heights to operating heavy machinery, the potential for accidents is high. An OHSMS gives you the tools to proactively manage these risks instead of just reacting when something goes wrong.

Here are a few key reasons why an OHSMS is essential:

1. Compliance: In Ontario, there are strict laws around workplace safety. An OHSMS helps ensure you’re meeting those legal requirements.
2. Worker Safety: Let’s face it – your team deserves a safe place to work. An OHSMS shows you’re serious about protecting them.
3. Efficiency: Safety issues slow down projects. By managing risks better, you avoid delays and keep things running smoothly.
4. Reputation: Having a solid safety system in place tells clients, partners, and workers that you’re a company that takes safety seriously.

How Does an OHSMS Work?

At its core, an OHSMS is all about continuous improvement. It’s not a “set it and forget it” system – it’s something you actively work on over time. Most systems, like ISO 45001, follow the “Plan-Do-Check-Act” cycle:

1. Plan: Identify risks, set safety objectives, and create policies.
2. Do: Implement those policies and train your team.
3. Check: Monitor how well the system is working, track incidents, and audit your processes.
4. Act: Use what you’ve learned to improve the system and make adjustments.

What’s the Difference Between COR 2020 and ISO 45001?

Both COR 2020 and ISO 45001 are frameworks for managing workplace safety, but they’re a little different. COR 2020 is more focused on the Canadian construction industry, while ISO 45001 is an international standard that applies to all industries. Both can be part of your OHSMS, depending on your goals and the clients you work with.

Do You Really Need an OHSMS?

Short answer: Yes! Whether you’re a small construction company or a larger operation, an OHSMS helps you stay ahead of safety risks, reduce accidents, and build trust with your team and clients.

If setting up an OHSMS feels overwhelming, don’t worry – you’re not alone. That’s where we come in. At Health and Safety Advisors, we specialize in helping construction companies in Toronto and beyond develop and implement OHSMS frameworks like COR 2020 and ISO 45001. Whether you’re just getting started or need help refining your system, we’ve got you covered.