Making changes to ill-fitting PPE and workplace culture benefits both men and women in construction careers
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There has been much dialogue regarding women in construction and advocating for changes in the industry, especially when it comes to personal protective equipment (PPE) and workplace culture.
What if improvements in both these areas were long overdue regardless of gender?
PPE
Updated 2023 legislation in Ontario states, “Personal protective clothing and equipment that is provided, worn or used shall be a proper fit, having regard to all relevant factors, including body types.” This legislation was introduced with women in mind, but wearing proper fitting PPE is in everyone’s best interest. Think about this regarding safety glasses, fall protection harnesses, gloves, ear plugs and more.
It is common to find “one-size-fits-all” PPE on a project site, but all men are not six feet tall and 200 pounds, either. It isn’t just about donning the safety equipment, but protecting the worker from the hazard of the task at hand.
Safety protection is not one-size-fits-all, yet often the gear on site is one size only.
Have you ever spotted someone with safety glasses sliding down their nose, harness shoulder straps falling off, gloves that are too big or ear plugs falling out while they work? Each one of these scenarios creates its own safety hazard. Safety protection is not one-size-fits-all, yet often the gear on site in one size only.
How do employers end up with ill-fitting PPE on site? Most often, the culprit is lack of education. In many situations, the person who is tasked with ordering the company’s PPE may be doing this as “another duty as assigned” and has never been properly trained in its requirements. If this sounds familiar, don’t hesitate to reach out to a health and safety firm to wade through this unknown (and often confusing) territory.
Workplace culture
Construction culture has come a long way since the days of catcalling, hand gestures and politically incorrect comments directed at co-workers, but there is still some work to do. The construction environment has not always been kind or healthy to all men on site. Often, the people who are carrying out any “teasing” at work believe that it’s part of a “tough love” approach.
However, it’s 2024, and this “tough love” approach does not have a positive impact. For men who are on the receiving end of workplace teasing, ask them if they enjoy coming to work every day. Most often, their response is, “No, I [expletive] hate it.” When it’s projected that the Canadian construction industry will be short by almost 300,000 workers by the year 2032, does it really make sense to drive away the good talent it does have? The same applies to women on site.
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When a male worker makes remarks to female workers such as, “Hey, get back in the kitchen,” or, “We’re the muscle, she’s just the eye candy,” please speak up. Become the ally who is needed to make this sector more inclusive. Men who notice that when sitting at the boardroom table, every time a female co-worker starts to speak, someone cuts her off, please be the ally who says, “Hold on, I’d like to finish hearing what Rose has to say and then we can move on to you.” As a man or woman who witnesses a man receiving unwelcomed comments, be the ally that they need.
People need to come together collectively to speak up about negative behaviour. Only then will the changes needed throughout this industry start to be seen. This can be difficult or uncomfortable to address, but what is accepted becomes the culture.
As an employer or supervisor, if this sounds familiar, it may be time to get the house in order. It’s expected that Canadian provinces will be ramping up legislation to address workplace harassment in the near future. There are many benefits to an inclusive workplace. How is better talent attraction and retention, higher employee engagement, increased innovation and creativity, and enhanced decision-making not good for business?
While addressing certain problems in the construction workplace may be framed as accommodating women in the industry, the fact is that these safety and cultural changes are what’s safe and healthy for everyone on a work site, regardless of gender.
In the bustling world of construction, where physical labour and stringent deadlines dominate the landscape, psychological health often takes a backseat. However, recognizing and addressing psychological health issues in the construction industry is not only crucial for the well-being of the workforce, but also for the overall productivity and safety of the industry.
Construction work is inherently demanding, involving long hours, physically strenuous tasks and often dangerous working conditions. Workers face constant pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to high levels of stress. The nature of the job often requires employees to work in harsh environments, endure extreme weather conditions and operate heavy machinery, all of which contributes to physical and mental fatigue.
Moreover, the transient nature of construction projects can disrupt workers’ personal lives, leading to instability and a lack of consistent social support. Frequent relocations and time spent away from family can exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness, further impacting psychological health.
Global statistics paint a concerning picture of psychological health in the construction sector. The latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics annual report on occupational injuries revealed a 7.7 per cent increase in construction fatalities and a 13.1 per cent increase in suicides in 2022 over 2021.
In Saskatchewan, from 2014 to 2023, the Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) accepted 1,848 workplace psychological injury claims. In 2023, 235 workplace psychological injury claims were accepted, with 181 of those claims being time loss claims. Sadly, there was one fatality in the province, as a result of a psychological injury claim. These alarming trends underscore the urgent need for psychological health and safety awareness and support within the industry.
The implications of poor psychological health extend beyond the individual, affecting the overall efficiency, productivity and safety of construction projects. Psychological health issues can impair concentration, decision-making abilities and overall cognitive function. This can lead to increased errors, safety incidents and injuries on the job site, posing risks not only to the affected worker, but also to their colleagues.
Productivity also suffers when workers are grappling with psychological health challenges. Absenteeism and presenteeism (when employees are physically present, but mentally disengaged) can lead to project delays and increased costs. In an industry where deadlines and budgets are critical, the economic impact of untreated mental health issues can be substantial. One Prince Albert-based general contracting company has been focusing on building their psychological health and safety program.
“We see mental health in the workplace as the next logical step in our health and safety program,” said Keith Bird, internal operations manager at RNF Ventures. “We see this as an important part of the evolution of workplace safety. We just want to be part of it, if not out in front.” Bird says there are challenges to overcome in order to build an effective mental health program in this industry.
One of the biggest barriers to addressing mental health in construction is the stigma associated with it. The industry has long been characterized by a “tough guy” culture, where showing vulnerability is often seen as a sign of weakness. This cultural norm discourages workers from seeking help or even acknowledging their struggles.
“We see this as an important part of the evolution of workplace safety. We just want to be part of it, if not out in front.”
– Keith Bird, RNF Ventures
“I think there’s still a stigma out there. I compare a job crew to a sports team. The days of coaches ruling through fear and intimidation [have come] to an end,” said Bird. “We’re seeing the same thing in our industry. Workers aren’t afraid any longer to ask questions and challenge decisions. That helps eliminate the stigma.”
To combat this stigma, it is essential to foster an environment where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized. Employers and industry leaders must take proactive steps to create a supportive culture that encourages workers to speak up about their mental health without fear of judgment or repercussions.
“[Our] end goal would be that we’d have a situation in our workplace where we would have our guys feel comfortable with the people that they’re working with, or feel that it’s a safe enough space that if they’re having some difficulty, they could say, ‘Hey, you know guys this needs to change,’ or, ‘I need to do something different here.’”
Three years ago, WorkSafe Saskatchewan launched the psychological health and safety program on its website, worksafesask.ca. This program supports employer awareness and development of psychological health and safety knowledge.
In 2023, WorkSafe Saskatchewan launched its first community of practice for the construction industry in collaboration with Dr. Joti Samra of My Workplace Health and Merit Contractor Association. The group met every month in 2023 and used resources available through WorkSafe Saskatchewan to support RNF Ventures and another Saskatchewan construction company in developing an action plan to address key psychological health and safety issues in their organizations.
The WCB’s prevention team supported a research study in partnership with Ian Lewis, an occupational therapist and employee well-being practitioner based in Regina. The research published in Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences (frontiersin.org/journals/rehabilitation-sciences) in March 2024 identified powerlessness in a subtheme, “I’m not the same as I was, but I really don’t have a choice but to work.” One participant expressed this powerlessness as “my opinion and experience didn’t really factor in when I was on my road to wellness.” Study participants indicated that co-worker, supervisor and employer-level characteristics play an important role in helping workers return to work. Worker input into a return-to-work plan is critical to psychological well-being.
Bird says that the psychological health and safety program gives RNF Ventures a competitive advantage in the industry. “Our hope is that it makes our company better and … makes it a better place to work and … maybe that’s one of the reasons that we get a new hire,” he said.
The construction industry, with its unique set of challenges, cannot afford to overlook the importance of mental health. By breaking the stigma, implementing effective mental health initiatives and fostering a supportive work environment, the industry can not only improve the well-being of its workforce, but also enhance productivity and safety. It is time for the construction sector to build a foundation of mental health awareness and support, ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for all its workers.
“The communication alone that’s going on around mental health within the industry … it’s top of mind with lots of industry organizations,” Bird said. “You see people talking about it [and] that’s a big first step and I think I think we’re moving in the right direction.”
WorkSafe Saskatchewan is developing a mental health awareness campaign for the province, with a focus on supporting leadership to work toward reducing the stigma of mental health in the workplace. To learn more about the psychological health and safety supports that WorkSafe Saskatchewan offers, go to worksafesask.ca/resources/psych-health-safety-resource-centre.
Grants totalling more than $1.3 million have been awarded to 55 projects that will improve traffic safety in 49 communities across Saskatchewan.
The grants are coming from the Provincial Traffic Safety Fund, helping to fund projects that focus on different aspects of traffic and pedestrian safety, including:
Installation of artwork by youth on Cote First Nation as an effort to prevent impaired driving;
Addition of speed display signs, speed bumps and signage to improve traffic safety around intersections in Arcola; and
Installation of pedestrian crossing signs in Moose Jaw to improve safety for vulnerable road users.
“I am thrilled to see communities benefit from the Traffic Safety Fund with projects that will make Saskatchewan streets safer,” Minister responsible for SGI Dustin Duncan said. “I would like to thank those who submitted applications and encourage all municipalities to consider applying for traffic safety projects in their communities.”
Provincial Traffic Safety Fund grants range from $1,148 to $100,000. The maximum amount of funding municipalities and Indigenous lands or territories can apply for is $100,000. Provincial Traffic Safety Fund grants are awarded to communities twice a year, using proceeds from Photo Speed Enforcement. With this latest round of grants, $11.5 million has been provided through the Provincial Traffic Safety Fund since its establishment in 2019.
Applications are currently being accepted for the next round of funding. The application deadline is Sept. 30, 2024. Eligible traffic safety initiatives must focus on one of the following priority areas: speeding, impaired driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, vulnerable road users, medically-at-risk drivers, occupant protection and intersection safety.
Applications are reviewed by a committee made up of representatives from the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities, the Prince Albert Grand Council, the Saskatchewan Association of Chiefs of Police, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Highways and SGI.
When it comes to road safety, small changes can have big impacts: this is the conclusion of a research project led by Pedestrians Québec and the team of Marie-Soleil Cloutier, professor and director of the Pedestrians and Urban Space Laboratory at the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS).
The project “On foot safely: developing the crossing of arteries” made it possible to analyze the effect of interventions aimed at making the crossing of arteries safer for pedestrians. Professor Cloutier, who is also director of the INRS Centre Urbanisation Culture Société, has studied the interactions between people walking and vehicles.
The professor was able to grasp perceptions of various safety issues, such as vehicle speed or motorists’ respect for the right of way. The data examined comes from collections in the form of observations and questionnaires on site, before and after interventions such as the removal of a traffic lane or the addition of a pedestrian shelter in the centre of a wide artery.
“Sometimes, relatively simple interventions can have concrete effects,” said Marie-Soleil Cloutier. “Over the course of the study, we documented an improved sense of security and a reduction in vehicle interactions. The verdict: it is not always necessary to plan major development works to improve cohabitation between the different populations using the road.”
Helping municipalities rethink their intersections
With the collaboration of the administrations of Montreal, Longueuil, Laval and Gatineau, seven intersections were observed, including four of them where interventions were made to modify the pedestrian crossing. Reading this data, Pedestrians Quebec’s message is clear: cities have the power to act to make their arterial roads more user-friendly and safer.
“Year after year, we see that arteries have the highest number of pedestrian deaths in Quebec.”
– Sandrine Cabana-Degani, Pedestrians Quebec
The project team has also created a series of fact sheets and video clips to present the results of the study and encourage municipalities to review problem areas.
“Year after year, we see that arteries have the highest number of pedestrian deaths in Quebec,” said Sandrine Cabana-Degani, executive director of Pedestrians Quebec. “Faced with this problem, our project aimed to study the existing solutions to make it safer to cross arteries. The results of this research will help equip municipalities that wish to take action. Because our arterial streets also need safety.”
Highlights
According to the analysis of road safety reports in Quebec, between 2015 and 2019, one in three pedestrian deaths occurred on a main artery
Before the interventions made during this project, less than 50 per cent of the pedestrians surveyed felt safe at major artery intersections
After the interventions:
There was a marked improvement in the feeling of not being pressed for time during the crossing
The number of pedestrians who found that motorists were driving too fast decreased
Pedestrian traffic light compliance increased at intersections with an arterial street
There were 50 per cent fewer interactions at intersections, i.e., occurrences where there was two metres or less between vehicle and pedestrian on the roadway
In 2019, WorkSafe Saskatchewan, a partnership between the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, launched the first three year Fatalities and Serious Injuries Strategy in an effort to help eliminate workplace fatalities and serious injuries.
In March, a new five-year strategy launched that focuses on two key streams of work that will be undertaken to reduce injuries and fatalities – a regulatory and enforcement stream, and a prevention and learning stream.
“Workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “This new strategy continues to make working with stakeholders to eliminate workplace injuries and fatalities in our province a priority. Everyone deserves to come home safely at the end of the day.”
“Collaboration with stakeholders is critical to bringing our injury rate down,” WCB board chair Gord Dobrowolsky said. “Building on the work of the last strategy, we will continue to engage workers and employers in finding ways to keep all workers safe on the job.” Under this strategy, the three main priority workplace sectors of focus are:
Health care
Transportation
Construction
These industries were chosen due to the high-risk nature of their work. Approximately 2,400 Saskatchewan workers are seriously injured each year in Saskatchewan. Copies of the 2023-2028 Fatalities and Serious Injuries Strategy are available at www.worksafesask.ca.
Fall Tender Plan Includes $157 Million in Highways Projects
The Government of Saskatchewan is looking to build and protect more of our provincial highway system with $157.3 million in new highway projects included in the 2021 Fall Tender Plan. These projects will continue the Ministry of Highways’ efforts to help stimulate the economy and improve the safety and reliability of Saskatchewan’s transportation network.
“Early notice of our construction plans to the road building industry ensures we can secure contractors and achieve value for money for taxpayers,” Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw said. “I am grateful to the road building industry for the good work they do and I look forward to seeing more work completed next year.”
Some of the significant projects included in the Fall Tender Plan include:
Highway 1 – repaving more than 13 kilometres west of Moose Jaw;
Highway 11 – bridge rehabilitation over the Qu’Appelle River east of Lumsden;
Highway 11 – bridge rehabilitation over Highway 20 east of Lumsden;
Highway 11 – bridge replacement over Highway 6 north of Regina;
Highway 16 – resurfacing nearly 15 kilometres at Saskatoon; and
Highway 46 – installation of traffic signals on bypass lanes at Prince of Wales Drive in Regina.
Tender releases are published in the spring and fall so the industry can thoroughly prepare and bid on upcoming projects, mitigating the risk of price increases and delivering the best possible value for taxpayers.
“The government made an important investment in our highway transportation network at a critical time for our economy,” Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association President Shantel Lipp said. “Our members delivered on that investment and kept many people working during a very difficult time, and we will continue to build upon that investment in the years to come. Done right, a sustained, long-term, robust investment program for Saskatchewan’s highways and trade corridors can help secure for generations to come the standard of living Saskatchewan taxpayers have come to expect.”
The Government of Saskatchewan is improving more than 1,350 km of provincial highways this year, the second of its 10-year Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 km of highways. With this year’s projects, the province is ahead of the pace needed to meet this target.
Five New Passing Lanes Opened East of Asquith
The completion of five new passing lanes on Highway 14 west of Saskatoon will provide safer roads for motorists in the area. Work began in June 2021 to build five passing lanes and resurface two and a half kilometres on Highway 14 between Saskatoon and Asquith. This $8.8 million project is part of a significant investment by the Government of Saskatchewan to construct 30 sets of passing lanes over two years, building on the addition of 27 sets of passing lanes in the last four years.
“Our government remains committed to improving the safety and efficiency of our key highway corridors,” Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw said. “Residents and motorists have let us know how effective passing lanes are and I am very proud of this government’s commitment to build new lanes this construction season.”
Passing lanes are typically a minimum two kilometres in length and are strategically designed to allow motorists to safely pass, reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. Studies have shown passing lanes can reduce collisions by as much as 25 per cent. Highway 10, the province’s first major passing lane pilot project, has seen 75 per cent fewer fatal accidents over the five years since its completion.
“This near $9-million investment in Highway 14 is greatly appreciated and will benefit not only residents, but also local businesses and industry in the area,” Biggar-Sask Valley MLA Randy Weekes said. “Safety is a big priority in rural Saskatchewan and these passing lanes make good on that priority.”
Other passing lane projects planned for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 construction seasons include:
Highway 2 north of Prince Albert;
Highway 3 west of Prince Albert;
Highway 5 east of Saskatoon;
Highway 7 west of Kindersley;
Highway 12 north of Martensville;
Highway 16 west of Yorkton to Springside;
Highway 16 east of Clavet to Highway 6 junction; and
Highway 39 between Milestone and the U.S. border.
The Government of Saskatchewan is improving more than 1,350 km of provincial highways this year, the second of its 10-year Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 km of highways. With this year’s projects, the province is ahead of the pace needed to meet this target.
Another $300 million in highways stimulus funds is being invested over several years in thin-membrane surface upgrades, passing lanes and improvements to municipal roads and airports. The Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $10.6 billion in highway infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 17,100 km of Saskatchewan highways.
Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce Partners with the University of Regina’s Centre for Continuing Education to Deliver High-Priority Programming
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce (SCC) is pleased to announce a partnership with the University of Regina’s Centre for Continuing Education to deliver programming to Chamber members across the province. With a focus on in-demand skills training, programming will focus on career and professional development through a suite of non-credit certificates, professional microcredentials, badges, prep courses, and customized corporate training. The University of Regina’s Centre for Continuing Education meets learning needs by offering high-quality, accessible, innovative and responsive education developed in collaboration with local industry experts and the community.
Dr. Christie Schultz, director for the Centre for Continuing Education, said, “Partnering with the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is a perfect way to reach out and serve the professional development needs of businesses across the province.”
She added: “By providing valuable career development options to employers who need to fill skill gaps through employee training, we’re able to help build a stronger workforce and a more successful Saskatchewan.”
The University of Regina is a proud member of the SCC, and the two organizations continue to collaborate on identifying and meeting the training needs of the local business community. Recent U of R research shows employers and employees look to continuing education for training in areas such as project management, change management, leadership, collaboration, customer experience and stress management. Programming is currently delivered remotely.
“This partnership is an important step towards recognizing that lifelong learning is increasingly important to business. The University of Regina’s new professional microcredentials are a perfect example of education meeting workers where they are,” said Steve McLellan, Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce CEO. “Through this partnership and others like this, we’re working to provide business with flexible and timely options for workers to upskill, reskill and boost those skills that are in demand by industry.”
The SCC’s partnership with the Centre for Continuing Education is part of a suite of programs that Saskatchewan’s network of chambers is building through the Training & Employment Network to provide clear and locally coordinated pathways for workers to be identified, as well as to present learning opportunities that enhance skills for employers.
Report Serious Injuries, Fatalities and Dangerous Occurence
Under The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020, there is a legal requirement to report all serious injuries, fatalities and dangerous occurrences that occur in the workplace to the Occupational Health and Safety Division.
Call 1-800-567-7233 and select ‘1’ to make a report. The number is monitored for emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Serious injury of fatality
An employer or contractor shall give notice to the Occupational Health and Safety Division as soon as is reasonably possible of every accident at a place of employment that:
causes, or may cause the death of a worker; or
will require a worker to be admitted to a hospital for 72 hours or more.
The notice must include:
the name of each injured or deceased worker;
the name of the employer of each injured worker or deceased worker;
the date, time and location of the accident;
the circumstances related to the accident;
the apparent injuries; and
the name, telephone and fax number of the employer or contractor, or person designated by the employer or contractor to be contacted for additional information.
In addition to reporting the incident, an employer or contractor shall provide a copy of the notice to each occupational health committee co-chairperson or the occupational health and safety representative.
Refer to sections 2-2 and 3-18 of the Regulations.
Dangerous occurence
A dangerous occurrence is any occurrence at a place of employment that did not result in, but could have resulted in, the death of a worker or required a worker to be admitted to a hospital as an in-patient for 72 hours or more, and includes:
the structural failure or collapse of:
a structure, scaffold, temporary falsework or concrete formwork; or
all or any part of an excavated shaft, tunnel, caisson, coffer dam, trench or excavation;
the failure of a crane or hoist, or the overturning of a crane or unit of powered mobile;
an accidental contact with an energized electrical conductor;
the bursting of a grinding wheel;
an uncontrolled spill or escape of a toxic, corrosive or explosive substance;
a premature detonation or accidental detonation of explosives;
the failure of an elevated or suspended platform; and
the failure of an atmosphere-supplying respirator.
An employer, contractor or owner shall give notice to the Occupational Health and Safety Division as soon as is reasonably possible of any dangerous occurrence that takes place at a place of employment, whether or not a worker sustains injury.
The notice must include:
the name of each employer, contractor and owner at the place of employment;
the date, time and location of the dangerous occurrence;
the circumstances related to the dangerous occurrence; and
the name, telephone and fax number of the employer, contractor, owner or a person designated by the employer, contractor or owner to be contacted for additional information.
In addition to reporting the incident, an employer, contractor or owner shall provide a copy of the notice to each occupational health committee co-chairperson or the occupational health and safety representative.
Refer to sections 2-3 and 3-20 of the Regulations.
Effective Sept. 1, 2021, partial benefits will no longer be granted for partial completion of the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) program.
Previously, if a student completed only one or two levels of SYA, they were eligible to receive 100 or 200 hours of trade time respectively when applying for apprenticeship. As of Sept. 1, 2021, these partial benefits will no longer be granted. Only students who complete the whole program will be eligible for benefits. This change has been made to encourage students to fully complete the program.
The purpose of the SYA program is to raise awareness of apprenticeship in Saskatchewan schools by helping young people discover what rewards come with working in the skilled trades.
The SYA program is well-established throughout Saskatchewan high schools and educational institutions, and students typically complete the SYA program over three years from Grades 10 to 12. (It is also possible for students to complete in less than three years if they start the program later than Grade 10.)
High school students who complete the SYA program are eligible for many benefits. When registering as an apprentice in Saskatchewan in a designated trade within five years of their SYA completion date, they receive:
Waiver of apprenticeship registration fee;
Waiver of first level of technical training tuition; and
300 hours of trade time credit.
Adult learners who complete SYA as non-high school students are eligible to receive trade time hours only. Only high school students are eligible for the additional financial benefits. These are the same benefits SYA participants have always been entitled to following full completion of the program.
Beginning Sept. 1, 2021, the SATCC will require employers to register employees when they are initially hired into the compulsory trades. A completed Employer Application for Registering an Apprentice Contract (Form 1) and Contract between an Apprentice and Employer (Form A) will be required by the employee’s first day of employment in a compulsory trade as well as the apprenticeship registration fee. This new process also applies to any current employees working in the compulsory trades who are not yet registered.
Registration marks the beginning of one-half of the number of hours in an apprenticeship year (approximately six months or 900 hours) an employee is permitted to work in a compulsory trade as outlined in The Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Regulations, 2020 before becoming indentured.
This registration process allows the SATCC to identify those individuals who intend to become indentured and will give the SATCC the ability to effectively monitor the number of hours an employee is working in a compulsory trade before becoming indentured. It also helps ensure that everyone on site in a compulsory trade is either registered with the SATCC, an indentured apprentice or a certified journeyperson. By registering, employees will have access to SATCC supports, such as learning supports and disability assessments.
For more information regarding the registration process for employees working in compulsory trades, clients are encouraged to contact us toll-free: 1-877-363-0536 or via email: apprenticeship@gov.sk.ca.
Brandt announces plan to create 1,000-plus new jobs
The Brandt Group of Companies recently announced plans to make a major investment in staffing and will hire more than 1,000 new employees by the end of 2021. The new positions will span the Regina-based company’s 100+ location international network, focusing on roles in Canada and the USA.
“There’s no question that our people are the foundation of our success. In spite of some challenging times for the global economy, an incredible team effort has enabled us to sustain our business and weather the storm successfully,” said Shaun Semple, Brandt Group of Companies CEO. “Looking ahead, the growth trend for Brandt is strong, so the timing is ideal to make a major investment in our team.”
In the past 10 years, Brandt has expanded their employee base by 140 per cent to more than 3,400, with the pace of growth continuing to accelerate steadily. The newly announced hiring initiative will see the company’s workforce grow by 30 per cent overall with the largest individual gains occurring in the company’s Regina, Saskatoon and Hudson, Ill. locations. Half of these hires will occur in the company›s Saskatchewan locations with 40 per cent more spread out across Canada and the balance in the USA.
The new hires will bolster Brandt’s existing operations in industries from construction, forestry and agriculture to rail, mining and steel. The positions will include skilled trades, sales, finance, marketing, customer support, IT and more as the company expands its support team to meet the needs of a rapidly growing customer base.
“As life begins to return to normal and we look ahead to economic recovery, this is very exciting news for workers and their families,” said Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier. “Saskatchewan has what the world needs, and Brandt’s success is a testament to the resiliency of our province’s industries in some of the most challenging global economic times.”
Interested applicants can view a current listing of the company’s career opportunities and apply online at www.brandtjobs.com.
“Saskatchewan has what the world needs, and Brandt’s success is a testament to the resiliency of our province’s industries in some of the most challenging global economic times.”
Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier
Focus on passing lanes saving lives in Saskatchewan
Work is progressing on a number of new passing lane projects as part of the Government of Saskatchewan’s plan to construct 30 sets of passing lanes over the next two years. This builds on the 27 sets constructed in the last four years.
Construction is currently underway on two sets of passing lanes on Highway 2 north of Prince Albert and the last of 13 sets of passing lanes on Highway 39 between Milestone and the U.S. border. All are expected to be complete by late fall of 2021.
“Safety is the primary concern of the Ministry of Highways,” said Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw. “Passing lanes have proven a reliable way to improve safety on a number of highways, with plenty more to come.”
The 2020 Fall Tender Plan and the 2021 Spring Tender Plan include passing lane projects on:
Highway 3 west of Prince Albert;
Highway 5 east of Saskatoon;
Highway 7 west of Kindersley;
Highway 12 north of Martensville;
Highway 14 west of Saskatoon to Asquith;
Highway 16 west of Yorkton to Springside; and
Highway 16 east of Clavet to Highway 6 junction.
Passing lanes are typically a minimum two kilometres in length and are strategically designed to allow vehicles to safely pass slow moving vehicles and heavy trucks such as semi-trailer units. Studies have shown passing lanes can reduce collisions by as much as 25 per cent. Highway 10, the province’s first major passing lanes pilot project, has seen 75 per cent fewer fatal accidents from before the project to five years after its completion.
“The passing lanes have ensured there are far fewer vehicle accidents, fatal crashes and injuries, allowing for safer travel and reduced emotional impacts on first responders who arrive at crash scenes,” said Balgonie Volunteer Fire Department chief Dave Campbell. “Combined with the reduced travel time, the passing lanes have been a significant benefit to local residents and visitors alike.”
The Government of Saskatchewan will be improving more than 1,350 km of provincial highways this year, the second of its 10-year Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 km of highways. With this year’s projects, the province is ahead of the pace needed to meet this target. There will be $300 million in additional highways stimulus funds that will be invested over several years in thin-membrane surface upgrades, passing lanes and improvements to municipal roads and airports.
The Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $10.6 billion in highways infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 17,100 km of Saskatchewan highways.
Saskatchewan opens up access to rapid antigen tests
According to the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the best way to protect yourself and others is to get vaccinated. Photo: milkos/123RF
Rapid antigen tests may now be used by Saskatchewan businesses and individuals to help screen people who do not show COVID-19 symptoms. The province has amended The Medical Laboratory Licensing Regulations, 1995 so that a formal agreement is no longer required between those who use rapid antigen tests and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA).
“Our government is committed to improving access to health care services for people across the province, and providing the necessary tools to address the pandemic,” said Health Minister Paul Merriman. “This step means that businesses and individuals can easily procure and use these tests, helping asymptomatic people who have COVID-19 receive testing and treatment more quickly. Ultimately, the best way to protect yourself and those around you is to get vaccinated.”
Rapid antigen tests are not a diagnostic test, but are used to screen asymptomatic people for COVID-19. Health officials strongly recommend that people who receive a positive test result immediately self-isolate and call 811 for further instructions, such as scheduling a confirmatory test through a SHA testing centre.
“The SHA’s Test to Protect program is an important element of a multi-layered approach that we have added to our pandemic response along with vaccination,” said SHA testing chief Carrie Dornstauder. “The Test to Protect community rapid antigen testing program provides workplaces with early detection of COVID-19, ensuring a strong and healthy workplace and workforce through outbreak prevention.”
Large national businesses that operate in Saskatchewan and wish to use the tests can request them through the federal government’s online business portal at .
Small and medium-sized enterprises within Saskatchewan can apply for rapid tests from the SHA by submitting an Intake Form available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19 (search for Rapid Testing). Tests will be provided for workplace screening as supplies allow, however Saskatchewan’s federal allocation of rapid antigen tests will be prioritized for health care professionals and priority settings such as long-term care facilities, personal care homes, schools, group homes and shelters.
The general public will be able to purchase the tests from retailers who wish to offer them. Check first to ensure the tests are Health Canada-approved by viewing the list at www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/medical-devices/authorized/list.html.
General information on rapid antigen testing is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/testing-information/rapid-testing.
New Construction Codes Act coming to Saskatchewan
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The Government of Saskatchewan recently passed The Construction Codes Act (Bill 4) in the Legislative Assembly. The new Act will allow better alignment between construction codes and accessibility standards, including how they are applied to buildings, ensuring people with disabilities can better access and use buildings in Saskatchewan.
The new Construction Codes Act (CCA) repeals and replaces The Uniform Building and Accessibility Standards Act and will come into effect on Jan. 1, 2022, and will continue to oversee how construction standards are developed, adopted and implemented in the province. The CCA also modernizes the powers and responsibilities for building owners, local authorities, building officials and the construction industry.
“I thank those municipalities and industry stakeholders who provided input into this process resulting in this new legislation,” said Don McMorris, Government Relations Minister. “By improving the roles and responsibilities of each group, the new act will allow the Government of Saskatchewan and these groups to protect citizens from unsafe renovations and construction practices, promote building accessibility and ensure consistent application of construction codes across our province.”
Key changes in the CCA that will impact stakeholders include:
Local authorities can register an interest on a building title for unresolved building official orders. This will allow potential purchasers to make an informed decision about a building before buying it.
Local authorities have the choice to develop their own building bylaws or use a default building bylaw to be prescribed in regulation.
Allows for regional co-operation between local authorities to administer and enforce construction standards across multiple jurisdictions.
Local authorities can request the Ministry of Government Relations to assist them during a province-wide or local emergency by appointing officials, issuing building permits and authorizing building renovations as necessary to support the emergency response.
The Minister of Government Relations can make binding interpretations on construction codes to address Saskatchewan-specific concerns.
This new legislation also supports the reduction of government red tape, as identified in Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan.
“The CCA allows Saskatchewan’s Construction Standards Appeal Board to make binding pre-rulings to individual buildings when the code is being interpreted differently between the building owner, local authority, designer and contractor,” said McMorris. “This will help designers and builders obtain design decisions in a timely manner and ensure they are in compliance with Saskatchewan’s legislative requirements.”
Saskatchewan Polytechnic continues to demonstrate leadership in providing culturally inclusive learning environments and opportunities. The Indigenous Leadership Skills Applied Certificate will share valuable Indigenous leadership approaches towards maintaining resiliency and building leadership capacity.
Situated on Treaty 4 and Treaty 6 territories, and homeland of the Métis people, Saskatchewan Polytechnic is acting on its strategic plan for 2020–2025, Leading the Rise, by holistically integrating Indigenous ways of knowing, being, teaching and learning throughout all institutional practices, procedures and services. The launch of the Indigenous Leadership Skills applied certificate is part of this work.
“Customized programs, like the Indigenous Leadership Skills program, allow for increased participation through workplaces as professional development opportunities.”
– Paul Carter, dean for the School of Continuing Education
“To prepare learners for success in the communities and economies of today and in the future, the new Indigenous Leadership Skills program builds business leadership skills based on Indigenous ways of knowing. This specialized, unique program examines historical and contemporary models of Indigenous business, entrepreneurship and economic development,” said Dr. Larry Rosia, Saskatchewan Polytechnic president and CEO.
“At the Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario, we see the Indigenous Leadership Skills program as a vital piece in the efforts to engage Indigenous people into careers in the skilled trades. A sense of understanding of our own Indigenous history, culture, stories and resilience is crucial to empowering the individual in their career journey,” said Danny Deleary, Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario, community engagement coordinator. Indigenous Leadership Skills is an applied certificate designed to be leveraged by industry to broaden specialized, culturally relevant leadership skills within their workforce or by individuals preparing for their next career move or entrepreneurial venture.
Using real life case studies focused on exceptional Indigenous leaders, in an interactive format with fellow learners and instructors, the applied certificate is entirely online to maximize accessibility and flexibility for industry and learners. The program includes eight courses that will take about 240 hours to complete. Six of the courses explore standard leadership skills, while two delve deeper into traditional Indigenous leadership and approaches to business-building. Course materials and teaching methods align with Indigenous values, providing a safe, culturally relevant environment for learning.
“Customized programs, like the Indigenous Leadership Skills program, allow for increased participation through workplaces as professional development opportunities. They also provide opportunity for lifelong learning through relevant curriculum which can be successfully completed in a shorter period of time,” said Paul Carter, dean for the School of Continuing Education.
Slow down to keep Saskatchewan highways safe
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With construction season in full swing, the Government of Saskatchewan is reminding motorists to keep an eye out for construction zones on provincial highways.
“We view everything through the lens of safety at the Ministry of Highways, making sure that our work crews and contractors have a plan in place to keep every job site as safe as possible,” said Highways Minister Fred Bradshaw. “We need drivers to remember they have a role to play as well: plan your route ahead of time, pay close attention and slow down for everyone’s safety.”
Drivers must obey all signs and flag persons in work zones and slow to 60 km/hr. In some cases, work zones have temporary speed reductions left in place when workers are not present. This is often due to potential hazards present, such as lane closures, loose gravel, fresh oil and sharp pavement drop-offs.
“When the pandemic hit, our members continued to work safely building the province’s vital transportation corridors and also stimulating the local economy of many small towns that lost their tourism revenues,” said Shantel Lipp, president of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association. “Now that the province is reopening, we ask drivers to respect those mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, sisters and brothers while they resume their summer.
Our members work to keep you safe while you travel to your next destination, so please obey the signs, don’t speed and pay attention to your surroundings while inside our workplace.”
Speed fines are tripled in Saskatchewan when workers are present. Fines start at $210 and increase by $3 for every km/hr over the speed limit, up to a speed of 90 km/hr, and $6 for every km/hr over 90. A driver who speeds through a work zone at 100 km/hr will be issued a fine of $450, plus a victim surcharge of $80, for a total of $530.
