Wilkens Health & Safety Solutions

Wilkens Health & Safety Solutions Assisting clients in developing innovative solutions.

Happy Father’s Day to the hardworking men across every industry.
06/21/2026

Happy Father’s Day to the hardworking men across every industry.

06/19/2026

Starting June 22nd, 2026, Ontario’s updated WSIB First Aid Program will officially come into effect, aligning workplace first aid training with the latest Canadian Standards Association standards.

You may notice some terminology changes. Emergency First Aid will now be called Basic First Aid, while Standard First Aid will become Intermediate First Aid.

The WSIB is also improving accessibility by expanding its approved provider network and introducing new search features so employers can find training providers by location, language, delivery method, and certification level.

Another important update: workers renewing Intermediate First Aid certifications can now recertify through any WSIB-approved provider, offering more flexibility. And don’t worry. Current first aid certificates issued by approved providers remain valid until their expiry date.

These changes are designed to modernize training, improve consistency, and strengthen workplace safety across Ontario. If you have questions about how these updates may impact your workplace, please call us at 613-546-9814 or visit our website at whss.ca.

A new Lakehead University study is exploring how workplace injuries ripple beyond the individual to affect families emot...
06/17/2026

A new Lakehead University study is exploring how workplace injuries ripple beyond the individual to affect families emotionally, financially, and socially. Led by Amanda Maranzan in collaboration with the Thunder Bay & District Injured Workers Support Group, the research highlights that injuries often shift family roles, create financial strain, and increase stress for partners and children.

The study underscores a key message for safety leaders: supporting recovery means considering the family experience, not just the injured worker. Policies, return-to-work programs, and compensation systems that account for the household impact can foster more effective recovery and well-being.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is critical for worker safety—but misconceptions can put employees at risk. Accordin...
06/15/2026

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is critical for worker safety—but misconceptions can put employees at risk. According to the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and CCOHS, these common myths aren’t backed by safety standards:

1. One size fits all: PPE must fit each worker correctly to provide effective protection.
2. All used PPE goes in the trash: Contaminated PPE requires proper decontamination and disposal.
3. Hard hats last forever: Materials degrade; follow manufacturer guidelines and CSA recommendations.
4. Gloves protect against all chemicals: No single glove material resists all chemicals; consult Safety Data Sheets.

Promoting proper fit, disposal, maintenance, and selection helps create a safer workplace and a stronger safety culture.

On the National Day of Mourning (April 28th), a new report highlights the human cost of workplace hazards: 1,024 accepte...
06/10/2026

On the National Day of Mourning (April 28th), a new report highlights the human cost of workplace hazards: 1,024 accepted work-related death claims in 2024, with 661 linked to occupational disease and 381 to traumatic injury.

While lost-time injury rates are trending downward, occupational disease deaths are rising, particularly in Ontario, Alberta, and Newfoundland & Labrador. The report underscores that reported fatalities likely understate the true impact, due to gaps in coverage and recognition.

This data highlights the critical importance of proactive workplace safety measures to protect workers and prevent future fatalities.

06/09/2026

Think you know workplace safety? Let’s find out!

Myth 1: One-size PPE fits everyone
Ill-fitting PPE can leave gaps in protection and increase accidents.
Fact: PPE must fit each worker properly.

Myth 2: Hard hats last forever if they look fine
Hard hat materials degrade over time. Always check expiration dates.
Fact: Follow manufacturer and CSA guidelines.

Myth 3: Safety gloves protect against all chemicals
No glove protects against every chemical. Choose materials carefully.
Fact: Consult Safety Data Sheets for proper glove selection.

Don’t guess. Know the facts and protect your team.

A new CSA report estimates Canada’s mental health challenges cost the economy $180 billion annually, with employers bear...
06/08/2026

A new CSA report estimates Canada’s mental health challenges cost the economy $180 billion annually, with employers bearing roughly $110 billion through disability claims, lost productivity, and benefits. Shockingly, only about 14% of this spending goes to prevention, leaving most costs tied to crises after harm occurs.

Employers can take action by:
• Investing in robust mental health benefits
• Conducting psychosocial hazard assessments to identify workplace risks
• Train managers to recognize signs of distress and connect employees to resources

Proactive strategies not only support workers’ well-being but can also reduce costs, improve engagement, and boost productivity.

Ontario is taking bold steps to support workers and streamline approvals with the Protecting Ontario’s Workers and Econo...
06/03/2026

Ontario is taking bold steps to support workers and streamline approvals with the Protecting Ontario’s Workers and Economic Resilience Act (POWER Act), 2026. The legislation aims to reduce regulatory delays, harmonize health and safety training, and get workers into high-demand jobs faster while maintaining strong workplace protections.

Key highlights include:
• Streamlined permits and approvals to accelerate projects and economic growth
• Expanded protections and benefits for Ontario workers
• Improved labour mobility across Canada
• Increased access to medical residency positions for Ontario-connected graduates

Ontario is building a safer, more resilient workforce while cutting unnecessary red tape, helping workers and businesses thrive.

This year’s theme, , reminds us that children are vulnerable road users. Transport incidents are the leading cause of i...
06/01/2026

This year’s theme, , reminds us that children are vulnerable road users. Transport incidents are the leading cause of injury-related deaths for kids ages 0–14 in Canada, with an average of 6,700 injuries and 46 deaths each year. Simple actions, like slowing down, staying alert, and choosing safe routes, can make a big difference. Parents, caregivers, and drivers all play a role in protecting children while walking, cycling, or playing near roads.

Participate in Parachute’s Snap for Change campaign by sharing unsafe areas in your community and advocating for safer streets. Together, we can create safer roads for every child.

Ontario is taking steps to ensure employees keep more of their earnings with proposed changes to the Employment Standard...
05/29/2026

Ontario is taking steps to ensure employees keep more of their earnings with proposed changes to the Employment Standards Act, 2000 and a new Strengthening Talent Agency Regulation (STAR) Act.

Key Highlights:

• Uniform charges banned: Employers would no longer be able to deduct costs for mandatory, employer-specific uniforms, protecting workers in retail, hospitality, and food service from out-of-pocket expenses (uniforms can cost $50+). Small business exemptions may apply.
• STAR Act for entertainment workers: Talent agencies will face stricter oversight, including limits on commission rates, mandatory timely payments, and separate accounts for workers’ funds. The goal is fair, transparent compensation for performers.
• These measures are part of a broader strategy to protect workers, strengthen Ontario’s creative industries, and build a competitive economy.

Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, David Piccini stated: “Ontario workers deserve to keep more of what they earn…no one should have to pay out of pocket for a uniform just to earn a paycheque.”

Why it matters for employers and workers: Companies should review uniform policies and talent agency practices to prepare for potential changes. These updates promote fairness, transparency, and confidence across Ontario’s workforce.

Address

2225 Middle Road
Kingston, ON
K7L4V3

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Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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+16135469814

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