Some may think a career in residential construction is fraught with danger and safety concerns. They would be wrong. The possibility of danger and injury may exist, but the record in Manitoba has been remarkable, and employees, employers and consumers all benefit from this.
The Manitoba Home Builders' Association is the only association out of the 66 in Canada requiring all builder members to be Certificate of Recognition or Small Employer Certificate of Recognition, (COR/SECOR) certified as membership criteria. COR is nationally trademarked and comes with rigorous standards, including safety courses, the creation of a safety manual and the passing of both an internal and external audit.
COR/SECOR certification is managed and monitored by the Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (CSAM), recognized as one of the finest safety associations in Manitoba and among the best in the construction industry nationwide. CSAM is an invaluable source of information providing legislation insight, new product information, safe job procedures and how to effectively conduct informal discussions focusing on particular safety issues, known in the industry as toolbox talks.
Safe Work Manitoba has seen 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 companies who regularly practise safe work procedures and diligently follow what they learned in training has resulted in lower Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba premiums.
Lower premiums mean lower prices for consumers. A safe work environment means young skilled workers want to enter the industry for a career. Companies that consistently ensure a safe working environment attract skilled employees.
When looking for a builder for your new home, ensure your builder is COR/SECOR certified. The work site for your new home should be operated by someone who takes pride in their workers, their performance and their reputation. Safety is everyone's business.
There are 131 different homes on display in the upcoming Fall Parade of Homes, taking place Sept. 12 to Oct. 4. These homes were built by 33 different builders in 36 different areas or neighbourhoods. One of the primary similarities is every one of these homes was built on a safe work site under the supervision of a COR/SECOR company. Insist on certified safety when you build your new home. Insist on a Manitoba Home Builders' Association builder.
Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association
