Workplace Safety in Canada: How to Prevent the Top 10 Safety Violations

Workplace safety is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a fundamental responsibility for employers and workers alike. Every year, thousands of preventable workplace injuries occur due to unsafe practices and overlooked hazards. In Canada, the most common safety violations highlight key areas where improvement is needed to protect employees and maintain compliance.

By understanding and addressing these top safety concerns, businesses can reduce accidents, avoid costly fines, and create a safer work environment.

The 10 Most Common Workplace Safety Violations in Canada

The leading safety violations in Canadian workplaces include:

• Fall protection

• Scaffolding

• Electrical safety

• Hazard communication

• Respiratory protection

• Machine guarding

• Ladders

• Fire protection

• Personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Emergency action plans

Below, we’ll explore each of these safety concerns, how they impact workplaces, and practical steps for prevention.

1. Fall Protection: Preventing the Leading Cause of Workplace Injuries

Falls remain one of the most serious workplace hazards, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Common violations include:

• Lack of fall protection equipment

• Improper training on fall arrest systems

• Failure to inspect and maintain safety gear

Prevention: Employers must provide proper fall protection, ensure all workers are trained, and regularly inspect safety equipment. On-Track Safety’s Fall Protection Training Course covers fall arrest, travel restraint, and work positioning to help workplaces stay compliant.

2. Scaffolding Safety: Ensuring Stability and Security

Unsafe scaffolding can collapse, leading to catastrophic accidents. Violations often involve:

• Improper setup or maintenance

• Use of defective or damaged scaffolding

• Failure to follow safety standards

Prevention: Only trained professionals should assemble scaffolding, and regular inspections should be mandatory. Our Scaffolding Safety Course ensures compliance with Canada’s safety standards.

3. Electrical Safety: Reducing the Risk of Shock and Fires

Electrical hazards, such as exposed wiring and overloaded circuits, can lead to electrocution, fires, and explosions. Violations include:

• Poor installation of electrical systems

• Lack of proper maintenance and inspections

• Employees working without electrical safety training

Prevention: Electrical equipment must be inspected regularly, and workers should receive proper safety training. Our Electrical Safety Course provides essential knowledge on identifying and preventing electrical hazards.

4. Hazard Communication: Managing Dangerous Substances

Mishandling hazardous materials can have serious health and environmental consequences. Common violations include:

• Improper labeling of hazardous substances

• Lack of employee training on material handling

• No emergency response plans for spills or exposure

Prevention: Employers should implement a clear hazard communication program, train employees on handling dangerous substances, and maintain up-to-date safety data sheets. Our Hazard Assessment Course ensures workers understand and mitigate workplace hazards effectively.

5. Respiratory Protection: Protecting Workers from Harmful Airborne Contaminants

Many industries expose workers to hazardous airborne particles, including dust, fumes, and chemicals. Violations include:

• Failure to provide proper respiratory equipment

• Employees using incorrect or poorly fitted respirators

• Lack of training on when and how to use protective gear

Prevention: Employers must provide appropriate respirators and ensure workers are trained in their use. Our Respiratory Protection Course covers the different types of respirators and how to use them effectively.

6. Machine Guarding: Preventing Contact with Moving Parts

Machines with unguarded moving parts pose a significant danger, leading to severe injuries. Violations include:

• Lack of machine guards

• Guards not being secured properly

• Inadequate training on operating machinery safely

Prevention: Machine guards must be installed and inspected regularly to prevent injuries. Our Machine Guarding Course meets CSA safety standards and ensures compliance with Canadian regulations.

7. Ladder Safety: Reducing Falls and Structural Failures

Ladders are a common workplace tool but can be hazardous when not used correctly. Common violations include:

• Using damaged or unstable ladders

• Not securing ladders properly

• Failure to follow safe climbing techniques

Prevention: Employees should be trained in proper ladder usage, and equipment should be inspected regularly. Our Ladder Safety in Construction Course provides essential guidance on safe ladder practices.

8. Fire Protection: Preventing Workplace Fires and Ensuring Emergency Readiness

Fires can spread rapidly in industrial settings, putting lives and assets at risk. Fire safety violations often include:

• Lack of fire extinguishers or fire alarms

• Failure to maintain emergency exits

• Employees not trained on fire response procedures

Prevention: Fire safety equipment must be regularly inspected, and all employees should be trained in fire prevention and emergency response. Our Fire Extinguisher Safety Course teaches employees how to properly use extinguishers and respond to fire emergencies.

9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensuring Proper Use and Compliance

PPE serves as the last line of defense against workplace hazards, but violations frequently occur due to:

• Failure to provide appropriate PPE

• Employees not wearing PPE correctly

• Lack of training on PPE use and maintenance

Prevention: Employers must supply proper PPE, ensure correct usage, and educate workers on its importance. Our Personal Protective Equipment Course covers everything from head protection to high-visibility gear.

10. Emergency Planning: Preparing for Unexpected Events

Workplaces that lack emergency action plans put workers at greater risk during fires, chemical spills, or natural disasters. Common violations include:

• No clear emergency response plan

• Lack of employee training on emergency procedures

• Poorly marked or blocked emergency exits

Prevention: Every workplace must have a well-defined emergency action plan, conduct regular drills, and ensure workers know their roles in an emergency. Our Emergency Response Course provides a comprehensive guide to emergency preparedness.

Strengthen Your Workplace Safety with On-Track Safety

Preventing safety violations starts with education, proper equipment, and a commitment to best practices. At On-Track Safety, we offer industry-leading training, compliance solutions, and expert guidance to help your workplace stay safe and legally compliant.

Get started today:

✅ Explore our most popular safety training courses – View our training brochure and sign up for a free safety training account to receive 15% off your first three months!

✅ Book a consultation – Need customized safety solutions? Contact us to discuss your workplace safety needs.

✅ Stay compliant and protect your team – Invest in training and proactive safety measures to prevent costly violations and ensure a safer workplace.

Ready to enhance workplace safety? Get in touch with On-Track Safety today!