Working at Heights (WAH) training is a legal requirement in Ontario for workers on construction projects who use fall protection. However, thinking of it as merely a box to check is a costly mistake.

For any business operating in the thriving construction, industrial, and maintenance sectors across Ottawa, Kingston, Peterborough, Brockville, and Cornwall, CPO-approved WAH training is not an expense—it’s the single most effective investment you can make to protect your budget, reputation, and most valuable assets.

 

The Three Financial Benefits of CPO-Approved Training

 

Failing to provide mandatory WAH training results in massive financial exposure. Conversely, compliance delivers measurable business benefits:

 

1. Cost Savings: Avoiding the $52M Fall

 

Falls from heights are a leading cause of workplace injury and fatality in Ontario. According to WSIB statistics, injuries cost Ontario companies millions in compensation annually.

• The Compliance Benefit: Proper WAH training significantly reduces accidents. This translates directly to lower WSIB claim costs, fewer legal fees, and less expense associated with recruiting and training replacement workers for injured staff. Investing in training is exponentially cheaper than managing an incident.

 

2. Enhanced Productivity and Morale

 

A worker who is confident in their equipment, procedures, and training is an efficient worker.

• The Compliance Benefit: Well-trained employees are more confident and focused. They spend less time second-guessing safety procedures and more time completing the job. When employees know their employer prioritizes their safety, morale is boosted, leading to improved retention and productivity.

 

3. Reputation and Competitive Edge

 

In Eastern Ontario's competitive market, a commitment to safety sets you apart.

• The Compliance Benefit: Companies that prioritize mandatory training are viewed as professional and responsible. This enhances your reputation with clients, helps attract the best talent, and ensures you secure contracts that require strict safety records.

 

The Legal Line: What You Must Know to Stay Compliant

 

As an employer in Ontario, you are responsible for ensuring that any worker who may use fall protection equipment completes a Chief Prevention Officer (CPO)-approved Working At Heights course.

• The Standard: Our course meets the full MLITSD standard: a Theoretical Module on hazard recognition and legal rights, and a Practical Hands-On Module covering harness inspection, proper fitting, and rescue planning.

• The Expiry: Certification is valid for three years. You must ensure workers complete an approved Refresher Course before this date to maintain compliance. Inspectors WILL check your records.

 

Your Local Solution for Compliance and Confidence

 

Don't send your crew on long drives for mandatory safety training. We deliver CPO-approved, standardized WAH training at conveniently located facilities across Eastern Ontario.

By choosing Holmes Safety Training, you are partnering with a local expert committed to keeping your business compliant and your workers safe.

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We offer full WAH certification and Refresher courses in:

• Ottawa (Downtown, South, West, Orleans)

• Kingston

• Peterborough

• Brockville

• Cornwall

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Invest in the safety culture that builds your business. Book your next WAH training session today!