Investigation in January has led to some interesting observations

February 01 2010

First, leaving any investigation to an untrained person with little or no experience is a serious error. Experience matters and when you and your company could be facing $millions in potential fines, you need to get all the required information correct the first time. That will only happen with highly experienced investigators.
Secondly, your subcontractors and their level of health and safety experience and compliance may also become a major factor. If you THINK they are prepared for safety you may be your own worst enemy. The only way that contracts should be awarded to subcontractors is through a process wherein they show proof of preparedness by submitting their written program and safe work procedures. In one recent case, the subcontractor had no safety plans or documentation whatsoever and one of his workers suffered a critical injury. Companies that have no safety documentation or safety training in place and try to recover after the accident will continue to provide a steady stream of income to the government of Ontario, as they should.