IHSA delivers health and safety message to thousands at Canadian National Exhibition IHSA promotes working at heights training and homeowner responsibilities at national event

MISSISSAUGA–The Infrastructure Health & Safety Association (IHSA) took part in the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) from August 19-23, 2013 to promote the critical importance of working safely. The CNE is Canada’s largest annual community event. One of the 10-largest fairs in North America, it attracted 1.39 million visitors over 18 days in 2012. Over a five-day period, more than 12,000 people visited IHSA’s booth. Many came to get their souvenir photo taken with friends and family. The photo—showing fair-goers protected by a guardrail with the Toronto skyline in the background—reminded everyone about the importance of health and safety at work so that we all return home safely to our loved ones. Ministry of Labour (MOL) representatives provided great support for this initiative by joining IHSA staff to help get the message out. Together, they spoke to thousands of people each day about the hazards of working at heights and how to eliminate the risks. Many of us know someone who works at heights or has hired someone to work at heights. The CNE proved to be an effective venue for passing along valuable information to workers and employers, as well as homeowners who hire contractors for repairs and renovations. It also provided a great opportunity to educate young workers about their rights and responsibilities on the job. This event at the CNE came just before MOL inspectors begin a two-month enforcement blitz on falls in the construction industry. During September and October, inspectors will visit construction sites across the province with a focus on fall prevention and fall protection training. During August and September, MOL inspectors will also focus on hazards associated with sloped roofing. IHSA wants all workers and employers to keep their promise of safety. That’s why we offer consulting and training for firms whose work involves high-risk activities. Visit ihsa.ca for more information about how to protect yourself at work. About IHSA IHSA is the leading developer and provider of prevention solutions for work environments involving highrisk activities such as working at heights, working with high-voltage electricity, driving motor vehicles, transporting dangerous goods, working on suspended access equipment, and hoisting and rigging. IHSA was formed in January 2010 by amalgamating the Construction Safety Association of Ontario (CSAO), the Electrical & Utilities Safety Association of Ontario (E&USA), and the Transportation Health and Safety Association of Ontario (THSAO). For more information, contact Ken Rayner at 416-452-2160.

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