Canada's power sector reports record lows in occupational injuries

OTTAWA, Ontario - - The Canadian Electricity Association CEA recognized numerous Canadian electricity utilities and their front-line employees at the 2013 Occupational Health and Safety OHS Awards last night in Ottawa. Each year, CEA tracks the safety record of its corporate utility members. The annual OHS Awards recognize the top performers.

“I commend the winners of this year’s Occupational Health and Safety Awards for making Canada a safer place to work and live,” said the Honourable Dr. Kellie Leitch. “The Government of Canada is committed to a safe, healthy and productive workforce. Occupational injuries and illnesses, and related employee lost-time injuries, are at a record low across the country.”

Utilities recognized for safety excellence included Columbia Power Corporation, ENMAX Corporation, TransCanada, Yukon Energy Corporation, Ontario Power Generation Inc., Nova Scotia Power Inc., and Saskatoon Light & Power.

While the Canadian electricity industry is faced with infrastructure renewal and skilled workforce shortages, employee safety remains a paramount priority. CEAÂ’s Occupational Health & Safety program provides a member-driven forum for health and safety professionals to develop strategic partnerships and forward-thinking initiatives focused on improving the overall safety performance of the electric utility industry.