A group of some of Canada’s highest-profile general contractors have launched a new group aimed at elevating safety performance and establishing new benchmarks to protect construction workers.

The founding members of the Canadian Construction Safety Council (CCSC) are: Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Bird Construction Inc., Dragados Canada Inc., EllisDon Corporation, EBC, Graham Construction Inc., Kiewit Corporation, Ledcor Industries Inc., PCL Construction, Pennecon, and Pomerleau.

The group’s inaugural initiatives including the adoption of Type II safety helmets with integrated chin straps that provide better head protection compared to traditional hard hats.

Council members are also adopting a new fall protection standard, requiring safety measures such as harnesses and guardrails at six feet—lowering the current standard from 10 feet—to reduce falls.

The CCSC will also promote the adoption of ANSI level 4 cut-resistant gloves to help reduce the significant number of hand injuries sustained by nearly half a million Canadian workers each year.

Driving industry change to proactively protect, engage, and support workers is the foundation of CCSC's mission. By sharing best practices and insights, the council aims to build a safer and stronger construction industry across Canada.

Its strategic objectives include:

Reduce serious injuries and fatalities: Decrease the number of serious and fatal injuries in the construction industry through improved safety practices and protocols.

Champion industry safety improvements: Develop, adopt and implement best safety practices.

Enhance safety image and relationships: Improve the construction industry's safety reputation and foster stronger relationships with public and private clients, as well as regulatory bodies.

Networking and education: Provide opportunities for members to share knowledge, access safety resources, and learn from one another.

Leverage industry resources: Utilize the creativity, innovation, and the industry's collective expertise to establish and maintain higher safety standards.

Mental health awareness: Promote resources and education to support the mental health and overall well-being of workers within the construction industry.

More information is available at canadianconstructionsafetycouncil.com.