August 2003Mexico City Presentationwww.nscsa.org Nova Scotia Construction Safety Association Promotion of “best practices” in the construction sector Mike Kelly, CRSP, CHSC, CHSO Director Safety Services/Quality Manager

Canadian Federation of Construction Safety Associations l An assembly of not for profit associations and government agencies representing or serving the needs of the construction sector. l A common goal…… to reduce the human, social, and economic losses which occur as a result of workplace accidents and injuries.

A Brief History l Began in 1994 l All provinces except Quebec have sponsored representatives at the table l Agreement on a national standard for ‘Safety Certification” reciprocity reached in 1999 l Agreement on a national standard for Safety Officer status reached in 1999

Current Efforts l A national standard for audit in the construction sector.

Benefits of Participation l Mutual Support l Shared resources l Annual meeting to exchange ideas and discuss current initiatives. l Represent industry needs/concerns on national development initiatives such as the current HRDC initiative for development of an interactive computer based training program for pipeline contractors.

Future Considerations Strategic Interventions l Safety Certification as a prequalification (bid requirement) on all government projects. l Health and safety compliance as an integral element of tender specifications. Non compliance treated as a breach of contract.

Future Considerations Strategic Interventions l Level the playing field………Health and safety compliance should not be a penalty system for the good performers. l Recognize the costs associated with OH&S compliance. Tenders should be awarded based on fair evaluation of the 3 primary elements: Cost Quality Safety

Requirements l Internal responsibility – a workable compliance strategy. l Government Leadership l Industry support for: Simple standardized systems Access to quality affordable training Reward for good performance…incentives.