INDUSTRY DRIVEN, INDUSTRY FOCUSED PAGE | 2
Introduction
Ontario's automobile manufacturing sector is taking
action to reduce occupational injuries and illnesses
among its workers. During integrated risk assessment
and root cause analysis workshops, worker and
management representatives collaborate with
Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS)
and other industry stakeholders to identify the top
risks to workers in the sector. Exposure to hazardous
energy during routine operations came out at the top
of the list.
"In the automobile manufacturing industry, there are
so many opportunities for workers to interact with
hazardous energy sources. Plus, the consequences
of injuries associated with exposure to hazardous
energy can be very severe. This combination of
high frequency of exposure and high severity of
consequences make it a very high risk," explained
Kristin Onorato, Specialized Consultant with WSPS.
Automobile and light duty motor vehicle
manufacturing in Ontario is a sophisticated and
dynamic industry that employs more than 150,000
workers in the province. It includes the manufacturing
of cars, trucks, and coaches for personal, commercial,
and military use, along with parts and supplies.
As Ontario moves towards becoming a leader in
electric battery and vehicle manufacturing, this sector
is poised to see more growth and more change.
However, it is also an industry where workers are at
high risk for injury and illness, with emerging trends
that could heighten the likelihood of injuries if
not addressed.
"The significant, high-profile attention on this industry
right now made it an ideal candidate for the risk
assessment and root cause analysis methodology,"
says Rishma Brenner, Senior Health and Safety
Consultant with WSPS and one of the workshop
facilitators. "Organizations in this sector can use the
information to inform the way they dedicate resources
for continuous improvement."
Hazardous energy
refers to any form of
energy that can cause
harm to workers if not
properly controlled.
In the automobile
manufacturing industry,
this includes electrical,
mechanical, hydraulic,
pneumatic, thermal and
chemical energy.
"
"
"This work was incredibly
valuable and much needed,
as it paves the way for
potential solutions.
The collaborative efforts
we invest in will ultimately
benefit all of our employees."
—Melissa Gould, Director of EHS–
Linamar North America
