Running a small business in Calgary is tough—tight budgets, endless to-do lists, and trying to keep your team safe without breaking the bank. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Many small businesses struggle with workplace safety because they think it’s expensive. But here’s the good news: safety doesn’t have to cost a fortune! With the right strategies, you can build a safe and compliant workplace while keeping costs down.
At Calgary Safety Consultants, we help small businesses implement practical, budget-friendly safety solutions to stay compliant with OH&S regulations. Let’s break it down!
🚧 Did You Know? Workplace injuries can cost thousands in fines, lost productivity, and insurance claims. In Alberta, failing to meet OH&S regulations could even land you in legal trouble. 😬 (More on OH&S laws here)
💡 A good safety program doesn’t just protect employees—it protects your business from lawsuits, downtime, and costly penalties.
So, how can you keep your workplace safe without going over budget? Here are some affordable safety strategies.
1. Free and Low-Cost OH&S Resources
Why pay for something when you can get it for free? There are plenty of free safety resources to help small businesses in Calgary meet safety standards:
🔹 Alberta OH&S Resources – https://www.alberta.ca/occupational-health-safety.aspx
🔹 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) Guides – https://www.ccohs.ca/
🔹 Free Online Safety Training Courses – https://www.ccohs.ca/training/
At Calgary Safety Consultants, we also provide free consultations to help small businesses identify cost-effective safety strategies. (Learn more)
2. Implement a Simple Workplace Safety Program
A workplace safety program doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Start with these low-cost steps:
✔️ Write a Basic Safety Policy – Keep it simple: outline safety rules, emergency contacts, and reporting procedures. (How to create a safety policy)
✔️ Post Safety Signs & Reminders – DIY safety posters can be printed for free (Download free posters).
✔️ Hold Quick Toolbox Talks – Short 5-minute safety meetings can prevent accidents and require zero cost.
✔️ Assign a Safety Lead – Choose a team member to help monitor workplace safety. No need for a full-time hire—just a dedicated employee to keep an eye on risks.
3. Train Employees Without Breaking the Bank
Training doesn’t have to be expensive. Here’s how to train your team on a budget:
🔹 Use Free Online Training – Websites like CCOHS and WorkSafeBC offer free safety courses. (Explore free safety training)
🔹 In-House Training – Teach basic safety procedures yourself (e.g., how to lift heavy items correctly or handle hazardous materials safely).
🔹 Group Discounts on Safety Courses – Need professional training? Calgary Safety Consultants offers affordable group rates for OH&S compliance courses. (Check out training options)
4. Invest in Budget-Friendly Safety Equipment
You don’t need the most expensive gear—just the right gear:
✔️ Bulk Buy PPE – Ordering gloves, masks, and eyewear in bulk saves money. (Affordable PPE suppliers)
✔️ DIY First Aid Kits – Buy basic first aid items separately instead of expensive pre-made kits. (First aid kit checklist)
✔️ Rent Instead of Buy – Need fire extinguishers, fall protection gear, or safety harnesses? Many suppliers offer rental options to keep costs low.
✔️ Check for Government Grants – The Alberta government offers small business grants to help fund safety improvements. (Find grants here)
At Calgary Safety Consultants, we help businesses find the best deals on safety equipment to fit their budget. (Contact us)
5. Get Help Without Hiring a Full-Time Safety Officer
Hiring a full-time OH&S officer can cost $70,000+ per year. Not in the budget? We get it.
💡 Instead, consider outsourcing your safety needs. At Calgary Safety Consultants, we offer:
✔️ Pay-as-you-go safety support (no long-term contracts)
✔️ Custom safety plans for small businesses
✔️ On-demand safety audits & inspections
✔️ Compliance help to avoid OH&S fines
This means you get expert safety support when you need it—without the big price tag! (Learn more)
