Why Every Ontario Workplace Needs a Health and Safety Policy Statement
In Ontario, having a Health and Safety Policy Statement isn’t just best practice — it’s the law. But beyond meeting legal requirements, a well-crafted policy statement serves as the foundation for a strong workplace safety culture. Whether you run a construction site, manufacturing plant, office, or retail space, this simple document plays a key role in protecting your people and your business.
What is a Health and Safety Policy Statement?
A Health and Safety Policy Statement is a written commitment from an employer to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. It outlines the company’s general approach to health and safety, identifies responsibilities, and sets the tone for the systems and standards in place to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses.
Legal Requirement in Ontario
Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), every employer with five or more workers must:
- Prepare a written Health and Safety Policy.
- Review and update the policy at least once a year.
- Post it in a visible area of the workplace.
Failing to meet these requirements can result in penalties, fines, and even increased scrutiny from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD).
Why It’s More Than Just a Document
While it’s a legal must-have, your Health and Safety Policy Statement does much more than meet regulatory requirements. Here’s why it matters:
1. Demonstrates Commitment
It shows employees, clients, and regulators that your company takes health and safety seriously. When workers see leadership taking safety seriously, they’re more likely to do the same.
2. Clarifies Roles and Responsibilities
A good policy clearly defines who is responsible for what — from frontline workers to supervisors and upper management. This prevents confusion and ensures accountability across your organization.
3. Supports Internal Responsibility System (IRS)
Ontario’s OHSA is based on the Internal Responsibility System, which emphasizes that everyone in the workplace has a role in health and safety. Your policy reinforces this shared responsibility and promotes teamwork in maintaining a safe work environment.
4. Lays the Groundwork for Training and Procedures
Your policy forms the foundation for your health and safety programs — including training, inspections, emergency response, and hazard control. It ensures all subsequent safety initiatives are aligned with a consistent set of principles.
5. Reduces Risk and Liability
Workplaces with clear safety policies are more likely to prevent incidents. Fewer incidents mean reduced injury claims, insurance costs, and potential legal issues — protecting both your people and your bottom line.
What Should Be Included?
A compliant and effective Health and Safety Policy Statement should:
- Express the employer’s commitment to health and safety.
- State the goal of preventing injuries and occupational illnesses.
- Outline the responsibilities of management, supervisors, and workers.
- Be signed and dated by the highest level of management.
- Be reviewed annually and updated as needed.
Tips for Success
- Make it meaningful. Avoid generic templates. Tailor the policy to reflect your actual operations, risks, and company values.
- Communicate it clearly. Post it where it can be easily seen and include it in onboarding and training materials.
- Lead by example. Ensure management demonstrates commitment through action, not just words on a wall.
Need Help Creating or Updating Your Policy?
At Monarch Health and Safety Group, we specialize in custom health and safety documentation designed to meet Ontario’s regulatory requirements and your unique workplace needs. Whether you’re building your policy from scratch or reviewing your current one, we can help ensure it’s compliant, effective, and aligned with your overall health and safety program.
Contact us today to get started on a safer, more compliant workplace.