In a bid to tackle labour shortages and promote inclusivity in the workforce, the province of Ontario has recently implemented a series of regulations aimed at streamlining the employment process for internationally trained workers and enhancing safety measures in various industries.
These changes came into effect on July 1, 2023, and signify a significant step forward in creating a more accessible and secure work environment.
Regulated professions
Under the Fair Access to Regulated Professions and Compulsory Trades Act, regulated professions in Ontario must now expedite the registration process for internationally trained applicants.
The new regulations require a maximum decision-making time of six months, with a target of achieving a registration decision in at least 90 percent of cases within this timeframe.
Additionally, reporting requirements on the timeliness of registration decisions will be introduced, ensuring greater transparency and accountability in the process.
Construction sector
In the construction industry, Ontario is actively working to make job sites safer and more inclusive. To this end, the province has strengthened hygiene requirements, ensuring that workplace hygiene standards are upheld to protect workers’ health.
Furthermore, to foster a more welcoming environment for women, larger construction sites are now required to provide dedicated women’s-only washrooms, promoting gender equality and addressing the unique needs of female workers.
In a move toward inclusivity for all workers, employers are now mandated to provide properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring the safety and comfort of employees across the industry.
Mining
Ontario’s commitment to safeguarding the well-being of miners is evident in the strengthened regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
These changes, which came into force on July 1, 2023, are designed to update industry standards, reflect current technology, and make regulations easier to understand and follow.
The implementation of recommendations from Coroner’s Jury inquests further underscores the province’s dedication to miner safety. Key updates include the requirement for independently powered conveyances for transporting workers and the enhancement of surface ladderway safety measures, promoting a secure working environment for miners.
Additional changes coming in September
Looking ahead, additional changes are set to take effect on September 1, 2023, further enhancing workplace safety across various industries.
Ontario will be focusing on improving ventilation and diesel equipment requirements, significantly lowering the allowable exposure limits to elemental carbon found in diesel exhaust to the most protective levels in North America.
A program to manage airborne hazards will be mandated, ensuring proper protocols are in place to address potential risks. Moreover, procedures to manage major workplace changes, handle explosives in certain circumstances, and utilize electronic devices to evaluate specific hazards in underground mines will be introduced.
These comprehensive regulatory changes demonstrate Ontario’s commitment to addressing labour shortages, promoting inclusivity, and prioritizing the safety and well-being of workers across the province. By reducing barriers to employment for internationally trained workers and implementing robust safety measures, Ontario continues to strive toward creating a prosperous and secure work environment for all.
