January 7, 2013
What is the Certificate of Recognition (COR)?
A Certificate of Recognition (COR) is awarded to companies who go beyond the legal requirements of the Workers Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation by taking a best practices approach to implementing health, safety, and return-to-work (RTW) programs.
How does it Work?
Companies voluntarily sign up for the program with an association that represents their industry in the COR program, this association is recognized as a certifying association. They commit to participating in training programs designed to provide knowledge and skills in the development, implementation and auditing of health and safety management systems.
Each year we audit our health and safety management system by contracting an external Auditor. The Auditor visits numerous worksites to observe the workplace, conduct interviews with staff and examine our documentation which confirms the existence of our policies and practices in health and safety.
The Auditor presents their findings (both strengths and improvement opportunities) to the Company and an action plan is developed to address deficiencies revealed by the audit. By the use of an action plan to address each annual audit’s deficiencies, we are enacting a continuous improvement process generally referred to as the Plan, Do, Check, Act cycle.
When do we audit our Health and Safety Program?
Our External Auditor will be visiting various sites in both Alberta and British Columbia in February 2013.
How did we do last year?
Our External Auditor, using the ENFORM COR Health and Safety Audit Protocol 2010, conducted the audit during in two locations in British Columbia and four locations in Alberta. The audit consisted of a complete and thorough documentation review of the existing health and safety program in addition to interviews of personnel. We achieved a score of 84%!!! Great job everybody!!!
What are some of the key strength areas?
Standard Operating Procedures/Job Safety Analysis, Observation Card Program, Senior Management involvement, comprehensive goal setting program & a decrease in injury rates
What are some of our opportunities for improvement?
Ensure all tasks have a Standard Operating Procedures/Job Safety Analysis, monthly planned camp inspections, track Senior Management site visits and expand emergency drills for various emergencies.
Charles Hallett, BEH, C.P.H.I. (C)
Posted in: Safety (HSE)
