Ontario workplace injury rates down by 20 percent

Because of this drop in the annual rate of lost time injuries, employers have avoided about $5 billion in direct and indirect costs during the four years ending March 31, 2008. Reduced injuries also result in less strain on the health care system, and fewer workers off the job means increased productivity for Ontarioís economy.

After releasing the numbers, the McGuinty government announced that it will launch a new four year plan called Safe At Work Ontario. The new strategic plan will emphasize both the safety of Ontario workers and the increased productivity that safe workplaces bring to Ontario’s economy.”The goal of the plan is to enforce the Occupational Health and Safety Act while educating workers about the importance of workplace safety and lessening the burden on the health care system. To achieve this, inspectors will work with employers to develop a stronger health and safety culture.

“The McGuinty government and its workplace partners are committed to eliminating all workplace injuries,” says Ontario Labour Minister Brad Duguid. “Workers have a right to come home each day to their families, safe and sound.”