While the Ministry of Immigration, Training, Labour and Skills Development (MLITSD) is conducting an inspection campaign across the broader agricultural sector in Ontario, it is also narrowing its focus to veterinary clinics. Until March 31, 2027, a veterinary services campaign will bring MLITSD inspectors to veterinary clinics across Ontario. “The purpose of this campaign is to assist in building a foundational understanding of the occupational health and safety system and key compliance requirements under the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA),” says Kristin Hoffman, a Health and Safety Consultant with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) who specializes in agriculture. 

This inspection campaign follows an education period that started last September, targeting radiation exposure from X-ray equipment in vet clinics. “The MLITSD, Radiation Safety Institute of Canada, and WSPS collaborated last fall to raise awareness among veterinarians and their staff about the risks of radiation exposure. During this education period, we provided information to the industry to help everyone understand how to reduce their risk,” says Kristin, explaining that since April 1^st, MLITSD inspectors will now apply enforcement along with education.

“Although this initiative began with radiation exposure, inspectors will look for compliance in other areas as well,” says Kristin. Other top hazards in veterinary clinics include musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), motor vehicle incidents (MVIs), falls, handling sharp objects, and handling and restraining animals. “Handling animals can lead to MSDs, and sharp tools can lead to lacerations,” says Kristin. She also points out that, although it may not seem as obvious as other hazards, driving to farms and other agriculture sites to tend to animals puts workers at risk for MVIs, which can be fatal. “Psychological hazards must also be addressed,” says Kristin. She is referring to compassion fatigue that stems from caring for sick animals, as well as workplace violence and harassment.

Who is exposed to which hazards?

The first step clinics can take to prepare for an inspection is to complete a detailed hazard assessment, which involves breaking down the main tasks performed by each employee and identifying the risks to which they are exposed. “Veterinarians, technicians, assistants, and receptionists all have exposures to hazards; however, the frequency, severity, and type of hazard differ between roles,” says Kristin. Certain training is mandatory for everyone in the workplace, such as worker and supervisor health and safety awareness training, emergency response training, and first aid training.

Other training is required based on exposure. For example, those who work with large animals must be trained on how to do it safely. Those who use X-ray machines must receive training on x-ray safety. Employees who handle chemicals must receive training in the specific handling, storage, use, and disposal of the specific chemicals they use. “Employers are responsible to take every reasonable precaution to protect workers under OHSA,” says Kristin. “You have to understand which hazards are present before you can implement effective controls. This is why a hazard assessment is crucial.”

What will inspectors look for?

When MLITSD inspectors visit veterinary clinics, they will look for compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and applicable regulations. They will introduce themselves, explain the purpose of their visit, and ask to have a worker and management representative accompany them as they complete their inspection. “Inspectors may conduct a physical review of the workplace and an administrative review, so you should have your training, policies, and maintenance records readily available,” says Kristin.

Inspectors may ask to see your health and safety policy and program documentation, including your workplace violence and harassment program. If you have employees who visit farms or other agriculture sites, inspectors may also want to see evidence of driver training, off-site risk assessments, and a working alone policy. “To prepare for this, employers should review their policies and procedures, organize their records, identify hazards and implement controls, and inform employees of the campaign,” says Kristin.

How WSPS can help

Join us for a live Safety Connection Webinar on June 10th, 2026. Our health and safety experts will discuss what to expect during this inspection period, as well as best practices related to exposures and risks.

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