Start the Year Strong. Start the Year Safe.As construction activity ramps up in the new year, MLITSD inspection initiatives and IHSA guidance continue to focus on employer due diligence, equipment safety, emergency preparedness, and supervisor competency.January is the right time to confirm that critical safety systems are current, documented, and implemented in the field.—Key IHSA and MLITSD-Aligned Safety Priorities1. Annual Inspections – A Frequent MLITSD Enforcement FocusMLITSD inspectors continue to review inspection records as part of routine and proactive construction inspections. Employers should ensure the following are completed and documented:Fire ExtinguishersAnnual inspections must be completed by a certified third-party service providerInspections must meet Ontario Fire Code and NFPA 10 requirementsMonthly visual checks by site staff must also be documentedTools and Equipment Over 10 HorsepowerTools and equipment exceeding 10 HP must receive annual inspectionsInspections must be conducted by a competent person or a qualified third-party providerRecords must be available on site, as required under O. Reg. 213/91 – Construction ProjectsEmergency EquipmentFirst aid kits, eyewash stations, spill kits, rescue equipment, and similar emergency equipment must be inspected regularly and at least annuallyDeficiencies must be corrected promptly and documentedThese items align directly with IHSA guidance and are commonly reviewed during MLITSD site visits.—2. Emergency Response Plans (ERP) and DrillsIHSA guidance emphasizes that emergency preparedness must go beyond having a written plan.Employers should:Review and update their Emergency Response Plan at least annuallyConfirm emergency contacts, roles, site layouts, and procedures are accurateConduct emergency drills where practicable to verify worker awareness and readinessMLITSD inspectors may request evidence that workers are familiar with emergency procedures, not just that a plan exists.—3. Supervisor Competency and Due DiligenceSupervisor responsibilities remain a core enforcement area under the Occupational Health and Safety Act.IHSA and MLITSD continue to emphasize that supervisors must:Be competent and knowledgeable about site hazardsEnsure workers receive proper instruction and supervisionConduct regular inspections and address hazards promptlyEnforce safe work practices consistentlyA supervisor refresher at the start of the year supports compliance and reduces enforcement risk.—4. COR Readiness and Program ImplementationIHSA COR standards require not only documented programs, but evidence of implementation and effectiveness.Early-year priorities include:COR gap assessmentsUpdating programs to reflect current operations and equipmentInternal audits and corrective action trackingDemonstrating field-level application during inspections or audits—5. Training Before Peak Construction SeasonIHSA recommends completing required training before schedules become compressed.This includes:Working at Heights planning and refreshersWHMIS and site-specific orientationsSupervisor safety leadership trainingJHSC effectiveness and compliance reviewsProactive training supports both compliance and productivity.—How Auspice Safety Can Support YouAuspice Safety supports Ontario construction employers with:IHSA- and MLITSD-aligned safety programsCOR audits and maintenance supportSite inspections and due diligence documentationSupervisor and worker trainingPractical, field-based compliance adviceOur focus is on safety systems that work on real job sites and stand up to inspections.Looking AheadIf you are planning inspections, program updates, audits, or training for 2026, addressing these priorities early will reduce risk and prevent last-minute compliance issues.Contact Auspice Safety to discuss how we can support your safety goals this year.