Health & Safety Policy Sample for Ontario Workplaces
A well-crafted health and safety (H&S) policy sample is a written plan of action that demonstrates your commitment to protecting your workers’ well-being. It addresses workplace hazards and outlines your responsibilities as an employer under the Ontario Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
Legal Requirements for H&S Policies in Ontario
According to Section 25(2)(j) of the OHSA, employers with more than five regularly employed workers must have a documented H&S policy. Employers are also expected to review and update the policy periodically, at least annually, to reflect internal changes and external regulations.
Benefits of Having an H&S Policy
- Ensure compliance with OHSA regulations
- Demonstrate management commitment to workplace safety
- Align safety with business objectives and profitability
- Clearly define safety beliefs, principles, objectives, and strategies
- Establish safe work practices to prevent injuries and illnesses
- Outline employer and employee accountability and responsibilities
How to Create an H&S Policy
When developing an H&S policy, ensure it includes the following:
- Positive and encouraging tone
- Clear and concise language
- Periodic reviews and updates
- Signature of senior management or president
While a third party can draft the policy, senior management must guide the content and actively participate. Each policy should be customized to the specific needs and hazards of your workplace , do not copy policies from other businesses.
You can use a health and safety policy template Ontario as a starting point and tailor it to your operations. For example, the Ontario Public H&S Policy details responsibilities for each party. To minimize legal risks, it’s best to keep the language precise but flexible.
Sample Health & Safety Policy
Below is an example of a health and safety policy sample for guidance purposes:
Health and Safety Policy Sample STS Group values the health, safety, and well-being of our workers. We nurture a mindset of continual improvement regarding workplace safety. All workplace parties are responsible for speaking up when unsafe behavior or processes are observed. As your employer, STS Group takes all reasonable precautions to prevent workplace injury and illness. Our goal is to go beyond minimum OHSA standards and proactively prevent accidents. I, president of STS Canada, personally promise to uphold our company values – Worker Safety, Accountability, Integrity, and Continuous Improvement. In collaboration with the Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC), STS Group identifies and addresses workplace hazards. Safe work practices, policies, and procedures are clearly communicated and accessible to all workers. Training is provided before using any machinery, and routine inspections ensure safety. Supervisors are responsible for workplace safety, routine inspections, training, and documentation. Every worker receives the training and information necessary to perform their duties safely. Workers must follow regulations, company policies, procedures, and other applicable laws. Workers have the right to refuse unsafe work. Suppliers and contractors must align with our safety policy. Sub-contractors and visitors are informed about our safety program, policies, and procedures. The internal responsibility system is a core principle. Everyone looks out for one another to ensure we all go home safe. Signed President of STS Canada |
Why Choose STS Canada for H&S Policy Development
STS Canada has over 30 years of experience in health and safety consulting. We offer:
- Custom H&S policy development for Ontario workplaces
- Review, editing, and updating of existing policies
- Implementation support and employee training
- OHSA compliance audits and ongoing guidance
Need a customized H&S policy? Contact STS Canada today to ensure your workplace is safe, compliant, and tailored to your operations.