In a proactive move to protect workers and ensure compliance with federal safety standards, inspectors from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) will visit federally regulated grain operations in Ontario during January and February. Bruce Christianson, Ontario Regional Director and Regional Operations and Compliance Director at ESDC, explains where inspectors will focus their efforts.

“Most farm operations in Canada, including those that grow grain, are regulated by the province, operating under each province’s health and safety legislation,” says Bruce. “However, the Federal Labour Program gets involved in very specific, federally regulated grain operation, such as grain elevators, feed and seed mills, feed warehouses, and grain and seed cleaning plants.”

With heavy machinery, confined spaces, working at heights, moving conveyors, and the possibility of engulfment, handling grain is a high-risk business. It is essential to how we live, but it is also potentially fatal if these hazards are not controlled. “We know grain handling can be dangerous, but with the right planning and training, farms can eliminate many of the risks,” says Jay Remsik, a Health and Safety Consultant with Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS).

Is your farm ready for an inspection?

Understanding whether your business is governed by federal or provincial legislation is a good starting point because failing to comply with the correct regulatory framework can leave your farm vulnerable to penalties and, more importantly, injuries. “Our health and safety experts can help determine jurisdiction with on-site visits. That way, operators aren’t left guessing about which rules apply to them,” explains Jay. “Our focus is strictly prevention. We will help ensure that you are taking every reasonable precaution to protect your workers.”

During this blitz, inspectors will verify that equipment is properly guarded, conveyors have adequate safety measures in place and confined space protocols are clearly documented and followed. These hazards have historically been linked to serious injuries and fatalities, making them a priority for the Federal Labour Program. "Inspectors will conduct a physical walkthrough with workplace parties and will review relevant health and safety documentation. It’s an opportunity to review any issues and educate workplace parties if corrections are needed,” says Bruce.

“Inspectors aren’t just looking for paperwork. They want to see that safety procedures are being lived out on the farm. That means workers know what to do, supervisors are trained, and equipment is maintained,” says Jay.

Start preparing today

“Early planning is your best defence against tragedy. If you wait until inspectors show up, you’re already behind. But if you start now, you can build a culture of safety that protects your team every day,” says Jay. He and his team at WSPS are farm safety experts who can walk you through a detailed risk assessment, breaking down tasks, identifying hazards, and guiding you through establishing controls. “We don’t just provide resources and leave you to figure it out on your own. We work with you to get it right and help you stay up to date,” he says.

WSPS has everything you need to make compliance accessible and efficient. Visit the WSPS Agriculture Safety Centre for free templates, checklists, training, and other resources. Check out the latest episode of our podcast, Farm Safety Roundup, for the latest in farm safety news and best practices. “Safety isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about making sure everyone goes home at the end of the day. That’s the real measure of success.”

The information in this article is accurate as of its publication date.