Toronto-based contractors DPI Construction Management have announced a novel approach to managing COVID-19 safety protocols in their office and on their sites.

The firm announced on June 1 that it has retained the services of Dr. Elaine Chin, president of the Innovation Health Group, to advise on workplace safety and employee wellness.

“Dr. Chin will help our project managers develop safety protocols that are tailored for all of our projects,” said Rick Perin, co-founder of DPI. “We’ve always recognized that every project plan, even with the best laid plans can face challenges along the way. COVID-19 presents an enormous new challenge for all of us in so many ways. This virus will be with us until a vaccine can be found, which means that our approach to workplace safety must be thorough and well thought out. Dr. Chin will help us with that. And, in turn, we’ll continue to deliver for our clients.”

Specifically, DPI and Dr. Chin will develop tailored plans to maximize physical distancing and safety procedures in six areas: site preparation, personal protection, project scheduling, controlled access, cleaning and communications.

“When a person goes to work, they want to know that every precaution has been put into place to ensure their safety,” said Dr. Chin. “COVID-19 will undoubtedly make construction sites more complex to navigate, but it will be possible to carry on with careful planning and strict adherence to the safety measures we put in place.”

The decision to retain Dr. Chin is the latest in a series of moves the company has taken to control COVID-19 on its sites. The company has also established an emergency task force with a mandate to develop and implement specific protocols, policies and response plans.

The Executive Health Centre is a holistic medicine practice that provides personalized health care through preventative treatments.