Many people might think a career in residential construction is one fraught with danger and safety concerns. They would be wrong. The possibility of danger and injury may be there, but the industry's record in Manitoba has been remarkable and employees, employers and consumers are all beneficiaries.
The Manitoba Home Builders' Association is the only home builders' association out of 66 in Canada that requires all builder members to be COR/SECOR certified as membership criteria. COR is nationally trademarked and comes with rigorous standards including classroom safety courses, the creation of a safety manual with safe work procedures and the passing of both an internal and external audit.
COR/SECOR certification is managed and monitored by the Construction Safety Association of Manitoba, recognized as one of the finest safety associations in Manitoba and, for the construction industry, in all of Canada. CSAM is an invaluable source of information providing legislation information, information on new products, safe job procedures and how to effectively conduct Toolbox Talks, a regular safety regimen that should be happening on every construction site.
Safe Work Manitoba also has reported a marked improvement in safety in the building construction industry. In its recent report, time-loss injury rates went from 11 days in 2000 to 5.4 days in 2014. Continued safe performance by those companies that practice safe work procedures on a regular basis and diligently follow what they have learned in their training has resulted in lower WCB premiums.
Lower premiums mean lower prices for consumers. A safe work environment means that young skilled workers want to enter the industry for a career. Consistently ensuring a safe work site makes one an employer of choice.
When looking for a builder for your new home, make sure your builder is COR/SECOR certified. You want to ensure the work site for your new home is operated by someone who takes pride in their workers, their performance and their reputation. Safety is everyone's business.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association
