During the COVID-19 crisis, the Government of Ontario continues to update the list of businesses deemed as essential services. This list includes the construction industry as it plays a key role in societal functioning, and our economy.
The City does do not work alone in the enforcement of these critical safety measures. The Ministry of Labour (MOL) plays a critical role in the protection of all workplaces, as well as the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).
Concerns from the public about the safety of operations of any construction site should refer the matter to the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s Health and Safety Contact Centre at 1-877-202-0008. They are responsible for regulating construction site operations.
On Sunday March 29th, 2020, Ontario’s Chief Prevention Officer announced updated guidance to help employers better understand their responsibilities and what is needed to prevent the spread of COVID-19 on the job site. Staff will ensure that these measures are enforced across the organization, including the following:
- Providing better on-site sanitation, including a focus on high-touch areas like site trailers, door handles and hoists.
- Communicating roles, responsibilities, and health and safety policies, by, for example, posting site sanitization schedules and work schedules.
- Enabling greater distances between workers by staggering shifts, restricting site numbers and limiting elevator usage.
- Protecting public health, by tracking and monitoring workers.
As this is an ever-changing emergency, the City will ensure that all those working on a job site are being made aware of their rights and all guidance from MOL. The following website will be shared https://www.ontario.ca/page/construction-site-health-and-safety-during-covid-19.
