Changes to Mandatory Working at Heights Training Requirements

May 31, 2023

On May 17, 2023, Ontario announced changes to the training requirements for working at heights.

The province has updated both the program and provider standards for mandatory working at heights training, noting that falling from heights is one of the leading causes of workplace fatality in a number of industries including construction.

Currently, workers on construction projects who use fall protection devices must undergo a working at heights training program that is approved by the Ministry of Labour and delivered by an approved training provider. The training requirements for working at heights are set out in O. Reg. 297/13: Occupational Health and Safety Awareness Training.

The key changes to the program standard include:

additional learning outcomes, including with regard to ladders, skylights and damaged equipment
additional requirements for personal protective equipment
other changes to foster more inclusive engagement in the training

Changes to the provider standard include updates to instructor requirements and the promotion of social inclusion and anti-racism.

These changes were announced in tandem with an investment of $12.5 million in Ontario’s health and safety associations, which provide safety training and resources to Ontario workers and businesses.

The changes to the Working at Heights Training Program Standard and the Working at Heights Training Provider Standard will come into effect on April 1, 2024. Current training programs will remain valid until that date. Workers with valid working at heights training will not be affected.

Have Questions?

Contact a Ward & Uptigrove Human Resources representative at 519-291-3040 or email info@w-u.on.ca

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Southwestern Ontario's Top Employers Award

Southwestern Ontario's Top Employer Award Winner

February 5, 2025

We are th rilled to announce Ward & Uptigrove was selected as a recipient of the Southwestern Ontario's Top Employers Award for 2025. The award is based on the following criteria: 1. Workplace, 2. Work Atmosphere and Social, 3. Health, Financial and Family Benefits, 4. Vacation and Time-Off, 5. Employee Communications, 6. Performance Management, 7. Training and Skills Development, 8. and Community Involvement! Here are some of the reasons why Ward & Uptigrove was selected as one of Southwestern Ontario's Top Employers (2025): Ward & Uptigrove increased its full-time workforce in Canada by over 13 per cent in the past year and lets everyone benefit in the company's success with profit-sharing -- the company also offers generous referral bonuses of up to $5,000 per successful candidate as an incentive for employees to recruit friends Ward & Uptigrove hosts three major social events each year, giving employees the opportunity to unwind and connect with food, beverage and entertainment covered by the firm's partners -- events include a post-tax season party (employees plus a guest), a fall golf tournament, and an annual holiday celebration Ward & Uptigrove matches employee donations in kind, and encourages them to lend a helping hand in the community with a paid day off to volunteer Emily MacRobbie, human resources manager at Ward & Uptigrove, says clients appreciate the close connections and sense of care their small-town environment fosters. “We’re big enough to attract and retain some of the best and brightest minds in the industry, while simultaneously being small enough that staff and clients are known on a more personal level,” says MacRobbie. “Employees really appreciate the flexibility the firm offers, such as work location (in office or hybrid) and hours of work arrangements. We keep a pulse on what’s happening and make sure we remain competitive with things like paid time off and flexible health benefits.” To learn more about career opportunities at Ward & Uptigrove visit www.wardanduptigrove.com/careers